EPA Testing Program May Prompt Relaxed Diesel Rule Enforcement

EPA is launching a testing program to assess the accuracy of procedures for measuring the sulfur content of diesel fuel, which could spur additional enforcement flexibility that the oil industry is seeking under a major rule requiring cleaner fuel in highway vehicles beginning in 2006. EPA has also asked the industry to suggest options for addressing concerns that contamination of the low-sulfur fuel could prevent compliance with the rule's requirements, according to industry and agency sources. At issue are two...