Louisville Seeks End to Reformulated Gas Mandate

Louisville has formally requested that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) allow the city and Jefferson County to exit the federal reformulated gasoline (RFG) program, which mandates the use of cleaner-burning but more costly gasoline. Mayor Craig Greenberg and local lawmakers argue that improved air quality and compliance with federal standards make the mandate unnecessary, and ending it could save drivers 10 to 35 cents per gallon—potentially totaling $137 million in annual savings. The EPA had previously denied a temporary waiver in 2022, but officials are now pressing for expedited approval due to the economic impact on residents. Supporters believe removing the requirement would provide financial relief to families amid rising costs. The EPA's decision timeline remains unclear, but optimism persists among local leaders about continued air quality and economic benefits.