Starting today, the summertime gas rules will go into effect in eight Southeast Michigan counties, including Washtenaw County.
You’re not likely to notice when you fill up your gas tank but the gasoline will be a little different. The vapor pressure will be seven pounds per square inch instead of the usual nine.
The summertime gasoline program was created in 1996 as a way to reduce air pollution in high population areas.
Tim White is from the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.
“Basically, the lower vapor pressure in the gasoline causes it to evaporate less, which results in less organic compounds being released into the atmosphere which helps the Southeast Michigan area maintain compliance with the Clean Air Act rules.”
Inspectors will monitor gas stations throughout the summer to make sure they are in compliance.
The summer gas program ends on September 15th.
Non-commercial, fact based reporting is made possible by your financial support. Make your donation to WEMU todayto keep your community NPR station thriving.
Like 89.1 WEMU on Facebook and follow us on Twitter
Contact WEMU News at734.487.3363 or email us at studio@wemu.org
