Let Science Guide Gas Decisions

Gov. Gray Davis faces a complex series of decisions in dealing with the gasoline additive MTBE, but the first of those is simple: California needs to begin phasing out the use of the troublesome chemical now. Methyl tertiary butyl ether might be an effective antismog agent, but it has become an unacceptable pollutant itself in the state’s water wells and waterways.

Other questions deal with the length of a phase-out and what substitute for MTBE might enable California to remain within the strictures of the 1990 Clean Air Act. The state also needs to launch an aggressive campaign to halt the leakage of gasoline from old underground tanks and to start cleaning up contaminated waters.

In general, an MTBE phase-out of three to five years seems reasonable. An immediate ban would create chaos in the petroleum industry that could send gasoline prices soaring.

The key question is a replacement additive. Federal law unwisely requires an oxygenating additive in smoggy areas such as the Los Angeles Basin. The major alternative oxygenate is ethanol, but experts say there is not enough to satisfy the California market. Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) and others are working to delete the oxygenate requirement if a state is able to meet air quality goals without it. This might allow reformulated gasolines that do not contain oxygenates. Feinstein’s effort should be supported.

There will be intense, emotional lobbying on this issue. Davis needs to move deliberately on the basis of the best available scientific evidence and common sense. That fortunately is his style. With the MTBE issue, it should serve California well.