Lawmakers ask EPA to waive reformulated gas requirements for 6 SE Wisconsin counties

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- As the financial pain at the gas pump continues, Assembly Speaker Robin Vos and dozens of Wisconsin Republican lawmakers are calling on the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to waive the use of reformulated gasoline requirements in southeast Wisconsin.

According to GasBuddy, reformulated gasoline costs about 45 cents a gallon more than non-reformulated gasoline. These requirements are imposed in Kenosha, Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Racine, Washington and Waukesha counties.

The average gas price per gallon in Milwaukee is about $5.17. Some drivers have had to spend close to or over $100 to fill up their gas tank.

"Now you got to pick and choose either gas or food, or this or you know," said Tiara Smith.

The letter sent to the EPA stated, "Many citizens are feeling the pinch at the pump and are looking for any form of relief. AAA expert Nicholas Jarmusz said if they were to waive the requirements, drivers would not see immediate relief.

"If the EPA summer blend requirements were suspended right now, drivers may not see immediate relief at the pump, because it could take some time for refineries to make the switch," said Jarmusz.

He said if drivers were to see relief, it would possibly be just a 10-cent difference. For some drivers, any relief would help.

"Whatever is best for my pocket at this point," said Adriana Perez, a driver who has seen about a $20 increase in her gas bill.

The EPA confirms that they have received the letter from Wisconsin lawmakers and said they will review the information and respond accordingly.