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Governor wants nationwide ban

The governor won't push state legislation to ban a controversial gasoline additive. Aaron Cummins has the story from Jefferson City--

The chemical MTBE is used in gas sold in St. Louis to reduce air pollution.

But, it's been found in ground water twice in Missouri.

Carnahan spokesman Jerry Nachtigal says the governor won't push for a state ban on MTBE, because he wants action on the national level.

The corn product ethanol would replace MTBE.

But, some critics say the change isn't about the environment.

They say it's political... aimed at helping big business.

In Jefferson City, Aaron Cummins, KMOX-News.

Date: 3/29/00

By: Aaron Cummins

State Capital Bureau

A Natural Resources Department expert says a national ban on a controversial gasoline additive would take several years to phase in. Aaron Cummins has more from Jefferson City--

The additive, MTBE, has been found in ground water twice in Missouri.

Environmental Engineer Bob Randolph says there's not enough of the chemical's proposed replacement to support a national ban.

Randolph says it would take up to three years to phase in ethanol.

In January, Governor Carnahan urged the Environmental Protection Agency to ban MTBE.

And last week, the EPA said they would remove the chemical from the market by 2003.

In Jefferson City, Aaron Cummins, KMOX-News.