WHEREAS, The Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990 require the use of reformulated gasoline with oxygen additives in areas of the United States, including Philadelphia, that have substantial ozone pollution; and
WHEREAS, In 1992, Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether (MTBE) was ordered by the Environmental Protection Agency to be put in gasoline in 16 states with high air pollution to curtail excessive carbon monoxide exhaust from automobiles and trucks; and
WHEREAS, MTBE was found to pollute ground water through leaks from underground storage tanks or spills while refueling motor vehicles, boats, lawnmowers and open containers; and
WHEREAS, MTBE and its derivatives, particularly, methyl nitrite, an extremely toxic substance, appear to be causing respiratory illnesses, headaches, nausea, asthma, bronchitis and sinus problems from the exhaust and fumes from cars burning MTBE; and
WHEREAS, The cases of asthma, particularly in children, are skyrocketing throughout Philadelphia and the cities using MTBE; and
WHEREAS, Carol Browner, Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, recently called for the banning of MTBE because it poses a risk to public health and the environment; however, she expects the ban to take up to 3 years to implement; therefore
RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That the Law & Government Committee hold hearings to investigate the health and environmental risks associated with Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether and its derivatives, and to urge speedy implementation of the ban on MTBE.
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