Press Release

The WRAP, whose membership includes Western governors, tribes, and federal agencies, developed consensus recommendations last fall to ensure small refineries would not be adversely affected by EPA's new Vehicle Emission Standards and Gasoline Sulfur Rules announced today. Based on discussions with EPA, WRAP leaders said they are assured the region's issues related to clean air and small refineries have been addressed in the rule.

The WRAP's position was developed by a broad-based group of stakeholders participating on its Mobile Sources Forum. The forum includes representatives of government, environmental groups and the automobile and refinery industries. It strove to protect air quality while providing flexibility for small refineries. WRAP Co-chairs, Gov. Mike Leavitt of Utah and Gov. Lloyd Tortalita of the Acoma Pueblo, praised EPA for allowing that flexibility to be incorporated in the rule.

"EPA's decision to accept the WRAP's premise will result in healthier air and give small refineries the time they need to select and install cost-effective equipment. It is an innovative solution that will prevent refinery closures, gasoline shortages and large increases in gasoline prices to consumers," Leavitt said. "The consensus-based process used by the WRAP is an example of the Western governors' Enlibra doctrine at work. Enlibra relies on greater participation and collaboration in decision-making, focuses on outcomes rather than just programs, and recognizes the need for a variety of tools beyond regulation to improve environmental and natural resource management."

"This rule is the result of the hard work and good faith negotiations of many people, including the WRAP Mobile Sources Forum," Tortalita said. "We are hopeful that it will prove to be fair to small refineries and that it will be an effective tool for protecting our air quality."

Under EPA's new rules, small refineries in a designated area will be given a one-year compliance extension, slightly less stringent interim gasoline sulfur standards and incentives if they provide early sulfur reductions. In addition, an anti-backsliding provision was included to prevent those refineries already producing low sulfur gasoline from increasing sulfur levels during the program's phase-in period.

Refineries located in Colorado, Idaho, Montana, New Mexico, North Dakota, Utah and Wyoming are covered by the small refinery provision. Additionally, the rule ensures these refineries will be able to continue supplying fuels to areas within several adjacent states.

Additional information on the WRAP and the Mobile Sources Forum recommendations can be found on the WRAP Web site.

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