OLR Bill Analysis

sSB 1019

AN ACT REQUIRING BIODIESEL-BLENDED HEATING OIL AND DIESEL FUEL.

SUMMARY:

This bill requires diesel fuel and number two heating oil sold in the state to contain a gradually increasing proportion of biodiesel. Specifically, it requires the percentage of biodiesel in these fuels to be at least (1) 2% by July 1, 2010, (2) 3% by July 1, 2011, (3) 4% by July 1, 2012, and (4) 5% on and after July 1, 2013.

The bill authorizes the environmental protection commissioner to suspend these requirements if she finds there is not enough fuel or oil physically available to meet the needs of state residential, commercial, or industrial users, and that this shortage constitutes an emergency. The commissioner must specify in writing how long the suspension will last.

Under the bill, biodiesel means a fuel meeting the requirements of ASTM International designation D6751.

EFFECTIVE DATE: October 1, 2009

COMMITTEE ACTION

Environment Committee

Joint Favorable Substitute