Disbelief as California drivers cant buy cheaper gas blend that state legalized last year

California drivers were promised a cheaper fuel option.They’re still waiting.Nearly a year after state lawmakers legalized E15 gasoline, not a single station in California is selling the fuel blend, despite estimates it could reduce prices at the pump by up to 30 cents per gallon.The delay comes as California continues to post the highest gasoline prices in the nation, with statewide averages hitting $5.61 per gallon on Friday.Supporters say E15, which contains 15% ethanol, could help bring down fuel costs because ethanol is generally cheaper than petroleum gasoline.Yet motorists remain unable to buy it while regulators work through a lengthy approval process.“Drivers are missing out on those savings all because of this kind of red tape bureaucratic process that is holding things up,” Geoff Cooper, president of the Renewable Fuels Association, told the San Francisco Chronicle.

“We don’t understand why it’s taking so long when this fuel has been in the marketplace for 15 years outside of California.”The biggest obstacle is the California Office of the State Fire Marshal. Before E15 can be sold, manufacturers must update vapor-recovery certifications showing that fueling equipment such as hoses and nozzles can safely handle the fuel without releasing excessive gasoline vapors. The agency also requires complete testing reports from laboratories it has approved.California's top news, sports and entertainment delivered to your inbox every day.

Please provide a valid email.By clicking above you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

Never miss a story Additional certifications are required from the California Air Resources Board, the State Water Resources Control Board, the Division of Occupational Safety and Health and the California Department of Food and Agriculture.Cooper argues the process is costly and time-consuming, saying manufacturers have already verified compatibility and provide...