EPA seeks input on E15 information collection request extension

The U.S. EPA is soliciting public comments on specific aspects of a proposed extension of an existing information collection request (ICR) related to E15 it plans to submit to the Office of Management and Budget.

A notice published in the Federal Register March 18 explains the current ICR is approved through Oct. 31, 2019. The EPA is planning to submit a request to the OMB to extend the ICR, but is first seeking public input on specific aspects of the proposed information collection.

The ICR relates to the partial waiver the EPA granted in 2011 to allow E15 to be introduced into commerce for use in model year 2001 and newer light-duty motor vehicles. According to the notice, that partial waiver prohibits the use of E15 in vehicle sand and equipment not covered by the partial waiver; requires specific labeling for E15 dispensers; requires E15 and related product transfer documents to contain certain information; and requires ethanol producers, gasoline refiners, blenders and related parties to conduct a survey of retail stations to monitor compliance with these requirements and submit periodic reports. In addition, to comply with conditions in the partial waiver, each survey party must implement a misfueling mitigation plan. The EPA said this ICR covers the associated record keeping and reporting requirements. 

The EPA is soliciting comments and information to evaluate whether the proposed collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of the functions of the agency, including whether the information will have practical utility. The EPA is also seeking comments that evaluate the accuracy of its estimate of the burden of the proposed collection of information, including the validity of the methodology and assumptions used. Comments are also sought on how to enhance the quality, utility and clarity of the information to be collected, and on ways to minimize the burden of the collection of information on those who are to respond.

The EPA said it will consider comments received and amend the ICR as appropriate before submitting it to the OMB for review and approval. At that time the EPA said it will issue another Federal Register notice to announce the submission of the ICR to OMB and provide the opportunity to submit additional comments to OBM.

Respondents/affected entities covered by the proposed ICR include ethanol producers and importers, gasoline refiners, importers, terminal, distributors, retailers, and wholesale purchaser-consumers. The EPA estimates the total number of respondents at 2,604.

Additional information is available on the Federal Register website. Comments can be filed through May 17 on www.Regulations.gov under Docket ID No. EPA-HQ-OAR-2015-0202.