Missouri lawmakers weigh the possibility of allowing greater amounts of ethanol in gasoline

Intro:	A proposed rule to allow a greater percentage of ethanol in gasoline to be sold in Missouri is facing opposition.
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Wrap: The fight to repeal a previous cap on ethanol gas is on at the Missouri state Capitol.

In a hearing with the Joint Committee of Administrative Rules on Monday, Director of the Missouri Petroleum Association Ron Leone said he does not oppose the increased cap, just the way it is being done.

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Description: "We think E 15 should not be done by rule. We think it's important enough and consequential enough that it should be done by law in order to protect consumers and small businesses."

The Department of Agriculture says it's safe product they want to make available for the market.

The committee will meet again Wednesday to look over testimonies.

Reporting from the state Capitol, I'm Jessica Mensch.

Intro:	An increase in the cap on ethanol percentages in gasoline could mean lower gas prices for Missouri.
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Wrap: The battle over whether to increase the cap is not over for Missouri lawmakers.

Expert from the renewable fuel association Christy Moore says the proposed increase from 10 to 15 percent could reap a lot of benefits for Missourians.

Moore specifically says E 15 would notably reduce gas prices.

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Description: "There have been zero reports of misfueling, engine damage, or liability claims against retailers offering E 15. And with a zero claim history the label has been proven effective."

The opposition says they do not oppose the increased cap but think it should be legislated rather than passed through a rule.

Reporting from the state Capitol, I'm Jessica Mensch.

Intro:	While some say the expanded cap on ethanol could be detrimental to consumers, the Department of Agriculture insists it could be beneficial to both consumers and business owners.
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Wrap: The department says allowing 15 percent ethanol gas would make it cheaper for consumers and allow interested business owners to stay competitive in the market.

Director of the Missouri Petroleum Association Ron Leone says lawmakers should proceed cautiously because of the lack of support from the automotive industry.

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Description: "If you put E 15 in a car that's not warranted for E 15 it will void your warranty according to the manufacturers."

He says that since this concerns both consumers and small business, it should be done by legislation rather than rule.

Reporting from the state Capitol, I'm Jessica Mensch.