Creating fuel blend requirements for new gas stations, providing grants for fuel blend compatibility improvements, and making an appropriation. (FE)
Impact
The bill is designed to enhance the state's fuel infrastructure by promoting renewable energy sources and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. By requiring new fueling stations to incorporate these standards and providing financial assistance for compliance, the legislation aims to improve fuel blend compatibility across the state. This shift is expected to lead to increased availability of cleaner fuels in Wisconsin, ultimately contributing to environmental sustainability and energy independence. The bill allocates approximately $8,000,000 in grants for the first year to support these initiatives, indicating a significant financial commitment to this cause.
Summary
Assembly Bill 455 introduces comprehensive fuel blend requirements for new fueling stations in Wisconsin. This legislation mandates that all new retail and wholesale fueling facilities constructed on vacant land must ensure their equipment is capable of storing and dispensing gasoline-ethanol blends containing at least 25% ethanol by volume, and biodiesel blends containing at least 20% biodiesel by volume. To facilitate these upgrades, the bill requires the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) to provide grants to assist facilities in meeting these criteria, thus promoting the use of renewable fuel sources.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding AB455 may center on the financial implications for existing fueling facilities, particularly those that may struggle to meet the new requirements without incurring significant expenses. Critics may argue that stringent regulations could adversely affect smaller operators who rely on traditional fuel types, raising concerns about market competition and accessibility to diverse fuel options. Additionally, the stipulation that facilities receiving grants cannot have previously received federal funds may complicate compliance for some operators, potentially leading to disparities in the industry. Overall, while the bill emphasizes a shift toward biofuels, the economic impact on existing businesses is a crucial consideration that may influence the discussion surrounding its adoption.
Providing income tax credits for the retail sale of higher ethanol blends of fuel and expenditures for lockable gun and ammunition storage and discontinuing income tax credits for qualified alternative-fueled motor vehicle property or fueling station expenditures, agritourism liability insurance, assistive technology contributions, declared disaster capital investment, environmental compliance, owners promoting employment across Kansas and swine facility improvement.
Transportation: motor fuel tax; incentives for the sale and production of biodiesel; provide for. Amends 1967 PA 281 (MCL 206.1 - 206.847) by adding sec. 679.
Transportation: motor fuel tax; incentives for the sale and production of biodiesel; provide for. Amends 1967 PA 281 (MCL 206.1 - 206.847) by adding sec. 279.
A bill for an act modifying the sales or use tax refund for biodiesel production, and including retroactive applicability provisions.(Formerly SF 2275, SSB 3102.)