Read about the current energy issues in the latest edition of NEON, the free weekly e-letter published by New England Fuel Institute (www.nefi.com).

This week's headline news also includes:

• Diesel Exhaust Fluid (a.k.a. Urea) Distribution Ramps Up for 2010 Mandate
• Do I Need Decals on My E-10 Fuel Pumps?
• Citizens Energy Program Will Launch Soon and Will Include New Hampshire
• $10K Donation Puts James Devaney Fuel with Sprague and Global at Top of Action Center Donor List
• API Reports Mid-Year Combined State/Federal Motor Fuel Excise Tax Burden

Read about the current energy issues in the latest edition of NEON, the free weekly e-letter published by New England Fuel Institute (www.nefi.com).

This week's headline news also includes:

• ACTION ALERT: Senate Version of Bailout Contains Biodiesel Tax Credit
• President Signs Bill to Double LIHEAP; Lift Drilling Ban; Bail Out Detroit
• Ethanol Pump Decals Now Available Through NEFI
• NEFI Launches New Action Center Website www.nefiactioncenter.com

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has launched an informational Energy Savers campaign "Stay Warm, Save Money" aimed at helping American consumers and businesses save on energy expenses during the cold winter months. Energy Savers offers proactive ways to implement simple, cost-effective, energy saving solutions for both homes and businesses. At the heart of this campaign is a consumer-focused website developed by the Department of Energy: www.energysavers.gov.

Boston (09-30-08): The New England Fuel Institute (NEFI), the Petroleum Marketers Association of America (PMAA), and other prominent business organizations have issued a letter to Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, encouraging them to address the impact of excessive speculation in the futures markets as soon as possible, as speculative activity may be manipulating actual "spot" prices for physical commodities such as heating oil.

Report submitted by: Paul Nazzaro, Advanced Fuel Solutions, Inc.

This past Friday September 26, 2008, the U.S. House of Representatives approved H.R. 7060, the Renewable Energy and Job Creation Tax Act of 2008, by a 257 to 166 margin. The legislation contained the following provisions pertaining to biodiesel:


• Extends the biodiesel tax incentive and the small producers income tax credit for one year through December 31, 2009. Under current law, these provisions expire on December 31, 2008.

• Provides that all biodiesel qualifies for the $1 per gallon tax incentive, regardless of feedstock used to produce the fuel.

• Closes the so-called "splash and dash" loophole by denying the biodiesel tax incentive for fuel produced outside the U.S. for use outside the U.S. This provision would be effective as of May 15, 2008, the date the U.S. House Ways and Means Committee first unveiled the provision.

• Properly defines the renewable diesel tax incentive to apply only to free-standing, Greenfield renewable diesel production, not co-processed renewable diesel.

The October issue of Oil & Energy will feature a recap of presentations at the Visions Conference -- SBA Lending Programs, Hedging in the Current Market, and Bioheat 101. The issue will also include: Sen. Jack Reed's take on American energy policy; digital efficiency tools; an SEC expert discusses Oil Reserve reporting; and a Q&A with meteorologist John Bagioni and more.

Read about the current energy issues in the latest edition of NEON, the free weekly e-letter published by New England Fuel Institute (www.nefi.com).

This week's headline news also includes:

• Congress Allows Ban on Off-Shore Drilling to Expire

• Senate Passed Bill Contains Biodiesel Tax Credits; Ends "Splash And Dash"

• Action Alert: Tell Congress to Add Speculation Bill to Wall Street Bailout!

• Reminder: EPA Stage I Compliance Deadline for Gas Stations

With all the capital fleeing Wall Street, there is fear it will flock into commodities, further driving energy and food prices beyond their already unreasonable levels. The markets witnessed some of that last week. The futures markets are severely unregulated, many trades are opaque and the markets lack sufficient position limits and other measures to deter excessive speculation and manipulation.

Therefore, various anti-speculation coalitions are trying to get the Anti-Excessive Speculation bill (H.R.6604/S.3268) attached as part of the Wall Street bailout package. As of 2:00 PM today (Thursday 09-24-08) news reports out of Washington suggest that deal on the so-called bailout package has been reached in principal by key members of Congress from both parties who will now proceed to the White House for conference with President Bush. Details of any agreement have yet to emerge, so the attempts to secure control over speculation remain as valid as ever.

The commodities issues are distrurbing world food and energy markets, as referenced in a letter to Congress and the Adminsitation by a coalition of over 60 international social justice organizations. Rampant speculation in the commodities futures markets has endangered the lives of millions of the world’s poor by contributing to a doubling or tripling of food prices according to their statement.

The organizations today urged the U.S. government to close trading loopholes and enforce speculative position limits in energy and food commodities markets during a press conference and through a letter to the President and Members of Congress. They were joined in their request by Dominican Republic President Leonel Fernandez and commodities futures markets analysts Michael Masters and Michael Greenberger.

With apparently only one week left for Congress, fate of key legislation hangs in the balance. The H.R. 6604 bill would impose critical position limits (how many contracts a trader can buy) on non-commercial (or "non-physical") market traders, or those traders that have no direct connection to the physical product. It would close the "Foreign Markets" loophole. It would also increase transparency on over-the-counter (or OTC) markets, require studies into the roll of pension funds, strengthen the CFTC through new staff resources, and help return some of the decision making on regulations to "physical" players.

The background information and support amassed by the New England Fuel Institute Action Center can be obtained at

An emergency home heating loan bill has been introduced by Paul Kanjorski (D-PA). The bill would guarantee loans for up to $5,000 for consumers who did not exceed 150% of median household income for 2008 or 2009. Funds may go directly to supplier.

Washington, D.C: Thursday, September 18

In a move encouraged by the efforts of New England Fuel Institute (NEFI) and other leading national and regional fuel trade associations and a nationwide coalition representing vast industrial and consumer interests, the U.S. House of Representatives has passed legislation to amend the Commodity Exchange Act to bring greater transparency and accountability to commodity markets, and for other purposes. H.R. 6604 passed today by a margin of 273 to 124.

The bill will now move on to the Senate, where enactment could lead to a dramatic swing in the way fuel and energy commodities are traded, eventually to the benefit of reseller marketers and end users. Look for additional postings at www.nefi.com and www.nefiactioncenter.com and major news sources.

For a review of the bill and summary background, link to the "Speculation" and "Masters Report" on this week's edition of NEON, the weekly e-letter issued by New England Fuel Institute.

Read about the current energy issues in the latest edition of NEON, the free weekly e-letter published by New England Fuel Institute (www.nefi.com).
This week's headline news also includes:

Feds Can't Tell If Speculation Plays A Role--Masters Report Gives Answers

President Releases Remaining Federal LIHEAP Contingency Funds; See Funding for Northeast and Mid-Atlantic States

EPA Releases New Emission Standards for Small Gasoline Engines

Gas Stations: ADA Does Not Require Call Assist Buttons on Dispensers

2008 Oilheat Visions Conference Sets
Attendance Records

2008 Visions PMAA PAC Silent Auction Winners -- Thank You!!! See If You Won And Claim Your Prize By Friday, Sept. 26

Read about the current energy issues in the latest edition of NEON, the free weekly e-letter published by New England Fuel Institute (www.nefi.com).
This week's headline news also includes:

• What to Expect When Congress Returns Next Week

Support the Senate NORA Reauthorization Bill

• GAO Report Criticizes EPA SPCC Enforcement & Data Collection Efforts

• NEFI Members Should Consider Urea Demand for SCR Engine Roll-Out

• Rumors of New "Purple Dye" For Kerosene May Be Unfounded



Silent Auction At 2008 VISIONS
Conference--Nearly $8,000 in Items Donated To Date. See the list.
New!! View Action Center Raffle Items

Read about the current energy issues in the latest edition of NEON, the free weekly e-letter published by New England Fuel Institute (www.nefi.com).
This week's headline news also includes:

• At Least One CFTC Commissioner Agrees--Trading Needs Greater Oversight

• Heating Fuel Costs Create Frenzy of New Congressional Legislation

• Bill Would Increase Biofuel Dispensing Infrastructure Tax Credit to $100,000

• Your Voice Matters In This Important Election Year--Tell Them Your Mind!

• NEFI Hosts Call to Examine Supply Outlook for Winter 2008-2009

Ian A. Bowles, Massachusetts' Secretary of the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs, is scheduled to speak about Bioheat® at the VISIONS 2008 conference being held September 8-10. The conference is being held at the Boston Logan Airport Hilton Hotel.

This heating season will be like no other the Oilheat industry has experienced. Members of the industry will attend this conference for two days and be better prepared to face the upcoming heating season.

Learn about conference details here...

The September issue of Oil & Energy will feature the program guide for the Visions Conference, an interview with the Director of MIT's Laboratory for Energy and the Environment Stephen Connors, news on Massachusetts' recent biodiesel mandate, "Biz Tips," efficiency articles and more.

Read about the current energy issues in the latest edition of NEON, the free weekly e-letter published by New England Fuel Institute (www.nefi.com).
This week's headline news also includes:

• Pelosi May Allow Conditional Off-Shore Drilling Vote

• Off-Shore Oil--How Much Is There?
Would It Impact Price?

• Your Voice Matters In This Important Election Year--Tell Them Your Mind

• Do You Own Or Operate A Bulk Plant? Then You Need To Own This CD-Rom

• Ethanol Blend Suppliers Should Mark Shipping Papers To Avoid Liability

Read about the current energy issues in the latest edition of NEON, the free weekly e-letter published by New England Fuel Institute (www.nefi.com).
This week's headline news also includes:

Bipartisan 'Gang of 10' Energy Proposal May Be Voted on This Sept.

Recent Events Highlight Need For Energy Trading Oversight

Your Voice Matters In This Important Election Year--Tell Them Your Mind

STUDY: Off-Road Diesel Fuel Market Will See Urea Demand by 2013

Boston / New York: PETRO (DivisIon of Star Gas) has pledged $200,000 in fair share matching funds to the newly formed American Energy Coalition which aims to spearhead a nationwide effort to stem Oilheat customer losses to utility gas heating. The Coalition set its first industrywide meeting for August 14 in Westbury, New York (Long Island).

NEFI has learned that the IRS has been stepping up enforcement of "Tax Exempt" decals required on dyed diesel and dyed kerosene dispensers. Decals are also required for clear kerosene sold tax-free from blocked pumps.

We have learned of IRS enforcement actions in several New England locations because pumps were not labeled or were improperly labeled. It seems that in some cases, IRS's "non-taxable fuel" decals were removed and replaced with the newer EPA sulfur content decals. As NEFI compliance documents have noted in the past, BOTH the IRS AND the EPA labels are required on dispensers for dyed diesel fuel, dyed kerosene and "blocked pump" clear kerosene.

See the attached NEFI Regulatory Alert for more information.

NEFI is in the process of obtaining these decals. NEFI already offers the sulfur content pump decals required by the EPA, as well as the biodiesel pump decals required by the FTC. We are also working on obtaining ethanol pump labels.

Read about the current energy issues in the latest edition of NEON, the free weekly e-letter published by New England Fuel Institute (www.nefi.com).
This week's headline news also includes:

• Congress in Recess But the Energy Debate Continues
• Outlook for Federal LIHEAP Funding
• Outlook For Anti-Excessive Speculation Bills
• Republicans Continue To Push Off-Shore Drilling
• You Can Help -- Meet With Your Members of Congress This Recess!

Read about the current energy issues in the latest edition of NEON, the free weekly e-letter published by New England Fuel Institute (www.nefi.com).
This week's headline news also includes:

• Vote Fails In House On Anti-Excessive Speculation Bill; Bush Promises Veto

• Industry Supported LIHEAP Legislation Fails Senate Vote

• NH Senators Introduce Measure To Help With Home Heating Costs

• Package of Energy Tax Breaks Stalls In Senate

Read about the current energy issues in the latest edition of NEON, the free weekly e-letter published by New England Fuel Institute (www.nefi.com).
This week's headline news also includes:

• ACTION ALERT: Contact Your Senators and Representatives Today!
• House Unable to Pass Measure to Release Crude From National Reserves
• NEFI Gov't Affairs Chair Testifies Before CFTC House Oversight Committee
• Victory! SBA Changes Heating Oil & Propane Dealer Size Standards
• DOT Amends Driver Drug And Alcohol Testing Procedures

New England Fuel Institute (NEFI) was instrumental in a recent decision by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to change the threshold for business size determination of heating oil and propane dealers under the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) from one based upon gross receipts to one based upon the number of employees. Specifically, the new rule defines small heating oil and propane dealers as those with 50 or fewer employees.

Read about the current energy issues in the latest edition of NEON, the free weekly e-letter published by New England Fuel Institute (www.nefi.com).
This week's headline news also includes:

• NEFI Joins Coalition Effort to Double Funding For LIHEAP Before Fall
• SPCC: 347,5,53: NEFI Offers Vital Compliance Seminar on SPCC Rule (Deadline July 1st 2009)
• Biodiesel Pump Labels Now Available!!!
• Open Board of Directors Meeting Scheduled For July 23, 2008

US Senate bill 3186, the Warm in Winter and Cool in Summer Act would provide immediate relief to millions of senior citizens, families with children and the disabled who are struggling to pay their home energy bills. Specifically, this bill would nearly double the funding for the highly successful Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). Passage of the bill was supported by a NY Times editorial this week.

Read about the current energy issues in the latest edition of NEON, the free weekly e-letter published by New England Fuel Institute (www.nefi.com).
This week's headline news also includes:

Airlines Launch Anti-Speculation Effort; Targets Frequent Fliers

NEFI Joins Coalition Effort to Double Funding For LIHEAP Before Fall

PMAA Futures Market Reform Task Force Meets In Atlanta

NEFI & PMAA Each to Testify at House Hearings This Week

NEFI Offers Vital Compliance
Seminar On SPCC Rule
(Deadline July 1, 2009)

NEFI Meets With DOE Officials to Discuss Federal Oilheat Reserves

IRS Now Enforcing EPA Sulfur Spec Regulations

EPA Extends Deadline For Compliance With New Stage I Equipment Rule

IRS Makes Mid-Year Adjustment In Mileage Rate Due to High Gas Prices

CFTC Amends No-Action Letter Issued to the Dubai Mercantile Exchange

The IRS is now enforcing EPA Sulfur Spec regulations and requirements for diesel fuel, kerosene and heating oil.

If you sell, transport or store these fuels, you must be in compliance! Failure to comply may result in fines of up to $32,000 per day, per violation!!

The IRS will be providing Fuel Compliance Officers (FCOs) to assist the EPA in enforcing the various requirements under the new Ultra-low Sulfur Diesel Fuel regulations.

For more information on how NEFI can help...

The NEFI Legislative & Regulatory Action Center is offering an online seminar (or “webinar”) to help fuel dealers remain compliant with the newly revised SPCC regulations. The webinar is scheduled for July 24, 2008 at 10:00 AM. Estimated duration of this webinar is 1.5 hours.

SPCC revisions are complicated, varied and apply to BULK PLANTS WITH 1,320 GALLONS OR MORE. The closer the approach to the deadline (July 1, 2009), the harder it will be to find a qualified engineer to revise and certify your plan, obtain the necessary zoning permits, begin implementing the changes and hiring contractors to do the necessary work.

The webinar will be presented by NEFI’s Federal Regulatory Attorney Mark S. Morgan, Esq. and Tim Laughlin, registered engineer in NC and VA. The webinar will be presented via telephone conference and web-based PowerPoint presentation. For registration information

Our July issue features news on hedging, pricing, margins, NAOHSM coverage and more.

The one conference dedicated to learning and planning for the future of heating oil operations and the diversified home energy business will land in Boston this September 9 and 10 with an intensive classroom approach to covering the most demanding finance, operations, information and productivity needs of the nation’s heating oil and propane delivery firms. Advance events on Monday, September 8, include a National Oilheat Research Alliance (NORA) board of directors meeting and scheduled biodiesel plant tour.

Read about the current energy issues in the latest edition of NEON, the free weekly e-letter published by New England Fuel Institute (www.nefi.com).
This week's headline news also includes:

Victory! House Passes Bill Ordering CFTC to Get Tough on Speculation

ICPA’s Guilford Joins Financial Experts In Condemning Speculation

Bioheat® Receives ASTM Approval

NEFI's SPCC Webinar, July 24, 2008

Late yesterday, the House introduced and passed the Energy Markets Emergency Act of 2008. H.R. 6377 directs the CFTC to take emergency action to address excessive speculation, swap transactions, and price distortion in energy markets. The bill’s passage, by an overwhelming majority of 402-19, sends a message to the energy traders that more legislation is to come.

Special Bulletin Issued by PPMCSA: The Pennsylvania state Senate, by a 50-0 vote, has passed SB 352 which if enacted, would have the effect of prohibiting the state from requiring oil vendors to offer discounts as a condition for participating in the LIHEAP program.

Dennis K. Burke, Inc., plans to hold a grand opening on Thursday, June 26th at their new biofuels center in Chelsea, Massachusetts. The celebration marks the first station in Massachusetts to offer E85 Ethanol at the pump. The station already has the distinction of being the first in Massachusetts offering biodiesel at the pump.

Thursday’s ribbon cutting at 10:30 a.m. will be hosted by company President, Ted Burke and Chairman of the Board, Ed Burke. Chelsea City Manager Jay Ash will emcee the event. Several state and local officials, as well as “green” industry friends are expected to attend.

ASTM International (formerly known as the American Society for Testing and Materials) has approved the inclusion of a 5 percent blend of biodiesel (B5) in heating oil, a significant boost to the 95/5 oil/bio blend used to create Bioheat® supported by the National Oilheat Research Alliance (NORA). It also clears the path for burner manufacturers (who heretofore conformed to 100% heating oil to meet UL approval) to now encourage use of Bioheat®.

Read about the current energy issues in the latest edition of NEON, the free weekly e-letter published by New England Fuel Institute (www.nefi.com).
This week's headline news also includes:

• Industry To Testify On Speculation Before House Oversight Committee
• BREAKTHROUGH: Federal Regulator to Limit Positions in London Oil Contracts
• VICTORY: Congress Passes Law to Close "Enron Loophole"
• IRS Instructs Fuel Compliance Officers to Enforce EPA Sulfur Standards
• IRS Under Pressure to Make Mid-Year Mileage Rate Change
• UPDATE: Battle Against Speculation

Read about the current energy issues in the latest edition of NEON, the free weekly e-letter published by New England Fuel Institute (www.nefi.com).
This week's headline news also includes:

• What NEFI is Doing About Futures Market Dysfunction
• NEFI & MOC Tell Senate Small Business Committee of Industry Challenges
• Newt Gingrich 527 Group Starts Grass Roots "Drill Now" Campaign
• Small Business Administration: Major Overhaul of Size Standards Coming
• Available: NEFI Compliance Kit on Federal Hazmat Registration (Due July 1st)
• The Battle Against Speculation

ALL companies that transport HAZMAT must have a valid U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) certificate in the cab of their trucks by JULY 1, 2008. As a general rule, if you placard your trucks, then you must register your company with the DOT. Obtain compliance information from New England Fuel Institute now...

The VISIONS 2008 Conference lands in Boston this September 9 and 10 and will focus on the many challenges faced by fuel dealers in today's heating fuel market. Attendees will learn about maintaining profits today and how to plan for the future in this rapidly changing marketplace. Industry professionals will discuss topics such as managing reduced sales volume that may occur due to consumer conservation and the growing use of high efficiency equipment, new opportunities that exist for companies looking to diversify the services they offer, and the best strategies for buying fuel.

Pre-conference events on Monday, September 8, include a National Oilheat Research Alliance (NORA) board of directors meeting and a scheduled biodiesel plant tour.

For more information visit http://www.VISIONS2008.org or click "Read More" below.

Read about the current energy issues in the latest edition of NEON, the free weekly e-letter published by New England Fuel Institute (www.nefi.com).
This week's headline news also includes:
• PMAA Member Joins Soros and Others in Senate Hearing on Oil Manipulation By Traders

• NEFI Publishes Compliance Kit on Federal Hazmat Registration (Due July 1st)

• GAO Recommends AST Tank Registration to Aid EPA SPCC Enforcement

• Update: The Battle Against Speculation

• VFDA Relocates to Montpelier

On Thursday, May 29th, the principal regulator of U.S. energy trading, the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, announced a series of new and expanded energy trading oversight initiatives. Immediately after the announcement, front month crude oil contracts on the Merc dropped and closed the day down $4.41 per barrel (refined products also declined). The new initiatives include:

1. A new agreement with their regulatory counterpart in the United Kingdom that would allow greater data sharing of U.S. Crude Oil contracts traded in that country (under the "Foreign Markets Loophole," also note that NEFI has not yet seen the details of this new international agreement);

2. Improved oversight of complex index and swaps trading (though the "swaps loophole," see Mike Masters testimony in lead story article);

3. A major announcement that since December of 2007, the CFTC has had an ongoing and "confidential" investigation into the "purchase, transportation, storage and trading of crude oil and related derivative contracts" to be certain "that the markets are properly policed for manipulation and abusive practices."

Read about the current energy issues in the latest edition of NEON, the free weekly e-letter published by New England Fuel Institute (www.nefi.com).
This week's headline news also includes:

• CFTC Commissioner Asks Senate to Investigate Off-Shore Energy Trading

• House OK's Energy Tax Breaks; Leaves Alone Renewable Diesel Credit for Heating Oil

Energy Trading Regulator Announces New Initiatives; Market Reacts

• Annual U.S. Dept of Transportation's HAZMAT Registration Due July 1st

Our June issue focuses on the challenges and diversification in the retail Oilheat industry.

Washington, D.C.: In a letter to key Senators, including Lieberman of Conn., the commissioner of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), has thanked them for their work to close the "Enron loophole" and seek greater transparency in commodities trades, energy in particular. He also expresses support for reviewing the impact of contratces traded off-market and in foregin exchanges, and a determination of what roles sovereign wealth funds may have in commodities markets.

Read about the current energy issues in the latest edition of NEON, the free weekly e-letter published by New England Fuel Institute (www.nefi.com).
This week's headline news also includes:
• Energy Market Speculation Is Now "Talk of the Town"
• U.S. DOT Proposes Increase In Annual HAZMAT Registration
• TSA Delays Compliance Deadline TWIC Enrollment
• 2008 UCR Registration Letters Sent to All Active U.S. DOT Number Holders

New England Fuel Institute has a July 2008 Webinar planned on Spill Prevention and Control Compliance (SPCC) issues, set for on or about July 1, which is the “one year out” date for full SPCC compliance.

All petroleum marketers with storage of any kind will want to participate. Mark S. Morgan, Esq., New England Fuel Institute Regulatory Counsel, will lead the regulatory discussion.

In addition to engineering firms with SPCC expertise, the webinar will include: fuel marketer(s) that have already met SPCC regulations correctly; banks for financing needs; and possible EPA participation at the close of the session. Watch for future RSS feeds, NEFI's weekly NEON e-letter, and visit www.nefi.com for later updates on this topic. (learn more at EPA site)

The Commodity Futures Trading Commission has announced the members of its recently-formed Energy Markets Advisory Committee. CFTC Acting Chairman Walter L. Lukken is the Chairman of the EMAC. It is designed to provide a public forum to examine emerging issues related to the energy markets and the CFTC’s role in these markets under the Commodity Exchange Act. Sean Cota, Cota & Cota Oil & Propane, Bellows Falls, Vt., and the most recent past president of New England Fuel Institute, will serve on this committee. See full text of announcement and advisory members at:

Circulating in the Senate is a letter opposing the planned elimination of the $1.00 renewable diesel tax credit for heating oil. New England Fuel Institute was part of this effort and opposes the elimination of this tax credit for renewable diesel used in heating oil applications. (Congress does NOT plan on eliminating this tax credit for on-road diesel fuel -- again, just for heating oil.)

Read about the current energy issues in the latest edition of NEON, the free weekly e-letter published by New England Fuel Institute (www.nefi.com).
This week's headline news also includes:
• Senator Olympia Snowe Proposes Diesel Fuel Excise Tax Cut
• FTC Urged by Congressional Leaders to End Market 'Manipulation'
• Extension of Alternative Fuel Tax Credit for Propane
• In New Bill, Rep. From California Wants Fuel Oil Companies Planting Trees
• Aviation Fuel Tax Increase Very Likely to Pass
• Energy Assistance Directors See Record Number of LIHEAP Recipients
• Administration Officially Denies Industry Request on Heating Oil Reserves
• U.S. DOT to Propose Rule Raising Mileage Standards for Light Trucks & Cars
• Heating Oil Retailers: Now is the Time for Bioheat®
• PMAA on National Ethanol Mandate Woes: We Told You So!
• Industry 'March On Washington' In Just Two Weeks!
• 2008 Visions Conference

The commodity futures oversight measure and regulatory act that the Oilheat industry and its many allies have diligently worked for has been included in the final Farm Bill language under preparation by House and Senate conferees who are likely to get the bill ready for a final vote in both chambers within a week or two.

Read about the current energy issues in the latest edition of NEON, the free weekly e-letter published by New England Fuel Institute (www.nefi.com).
This week's headline news also includes:
• Industry “March On Washington” Just Three Weeks Away!
• NH Congressman Paul Hodes: Stop Filling SPR
• Futures Market Concerns Raised In Presidential Debate
• Switch to Summertime RVP for Conventional Gasoline Begins May 1
• In Op-Ed, NY City Council Member Calls For Bioheat Mandate
• One Way You Can Make A Real Difference for the Industry In 2008…
• Thank You 2007 NEFI Action Center Fund Donors
• NORA: www.OilheatAmerica.com Sponsors Sports Car

Read about the current energy issues in the latest edition of NEON, the free weekly e-letter published by New England Fuel Institute (www.nefi.com).
This week's headline news also includes:

• Despite New Coalition Effort, Fate of “Enron Loophole” Legislation Now Uncertain
• Powerful House Member Backs Energy Speculator Ban
• Participate in the Industry “Day On The Hill” Next Month!
• President Bush Revises Position on Greenhouse Gas Regulation
• EPA Report: Oilheat Led the Way to Greenhouse Gas Reductions in 2006
• Major Gov’t. Study of Huge Oil Field in Mid-West Complete
• 2008 Officers and Boards Elected at NEFI and EFI Annual Meetings
• NORA Reaches Out to HVACR Industry In March Workshop

Energy Market Oversight Coalition (EMOC) urges passage of Farm Bill to gain commodity futures trading oversight amendment. Members of this coalition and energy consumers nationwide -- from homeowners to truckers, manufacturers to farmers -- have lost faith in the ability of the energy futures markets to determine a fair price for energy that reflects supply/demand fundamentals.

Read about the current energy issues in the latest edition of NEON, the free weekly e-letter published by New England Fuel Institute (www.nefi.com).
This week's headline news also includes:
· House Summons Majors to Testify on Oil Prices
· Industry Representatives Meet With Officials Over Northeast Heating Oil Reserve
· DOE Sends Mandatory Petroleum Product Survey to Select Marketers
· FCC Steps Up Enforcement Against Companies Sending Unsolicited Faxes
· Study Finds 10 Percent of All B-100 Fails to Meet ASTM D6751 Specifications
· NORA Hires Ross; Keyser Returns to Her Family Oilheat Business in VT

Read about the current energy issues in the latest edition of NEON, the free weekly e-letter published by New England Fuel Institute (www.nefi.com).
This week's headline news also includes:
• Airline Industry Joins Request for Heating Oil Release; Bush Administration Silent
• Treasury Secretary’s ‘Market Regulation Overhaul’ Proposal Ignores Industry Concerns
• NEFI Asks EPA to Exempt Parked Trucks From Certain SPCC Provisions
• Homeland Security Restarts “No-Match” Letters to Employers
• DOT Reports Delay In Several Important Rulemakings Affecting Marketers
• NEFI Announces New Insurance/Benefits Website!

New England Fuel Institute President Sean Cota (Cota & Cota, Bellows Falls, VT) will address the United States Senate today urging release of all 1.97 million barrels of the Northeast Home Heating Oil Reserves and for Congress and the administration to implement real and substantial reforms to existing law and federal regulation designed to ensure fully transparent, accountable and stable energy futures markets.

The New England Fuel Institute (NEFI) and The Independent Connecticut Petroleum Association (ICPA) and are endorsing the effort by Congressman John B. Larson (CT) to see a futures market reform bill enacted as a means of tempering the speculation and volatility in energy commodities trading that have contributed to the recent spikes in the price of home heating oil and other petroleum products.

In a move that affirms requests by the New England Fuel Institute and other petroleum marketer associations, the head of the Air Transport Association (ATA, James C. May) has asked Dept. of Energy Secretary Samuel Bodman to release home heating fuel from the Northeast Oil Reserve to temper the impact higher prices of home heating oil are having with respect to the cost of jet fuel nationwide due to their correlation in futures contract pricing, whereas trading for both products are based on NY Harbor delivery.

Read about the current energy issues in the latest edition of NEON, the free weekly e-letter published by New England Fuel Institute (www.nefi.com).
This week's headline news also includes:
• Senator Susan Collins Backs Industry Call For Release From Reserves
• Proposed Bill Would Eliminate Duplicative Driver Background Checks
• SBA Rule Would Increase Number of Heating Fuel Dealers Classified As "Small Business"
• EPA to Re-examine 20-Year-Old Underground Storage Tank Regulations
• DHS Clarifies Propane Screening Thresholds for Chemical Mixtures

Home heating oil dealers are planning to appeal to federal policymakers to enact a five-point program of relief aimed at helping consumers cope with historically high energy prices by increasing supply and reining in profiteering in markets overrun by speculators.

On March 27th from 1-3 p.m., the New England states' Oilheat associations will host an interactive TV broadcast seminar for Oilheat dealers entitled “Looking for a Leg Up or a Lifeline? $100 Crude and the Impact on Home Heating Oil Retailers: Assessing Opportunities and Threats for Companies in Transition.”

You must travel to a special location to view the interactive TV broadcast which is originating from a remote location. The seminar is free, but attendance is dependent on the broadcast site. If you wish to attend this event, you must contact your state Oilheat association. For a listing of topics...

In a concerted effort to convince the Bush administration to draw down heating oil from the Northeast Strategic Petroleum Reserve to reduce pressure on home heating oil prices, New England Fuel Institute (NEFI) and the Petroleum Marketers Association of America (PMAA) have issued a letter calling for the drawdown. (In related news, Reuters News services reports that the head of the Energy Information Administration acknowledged that such a move would reduce short-term prices. See http://www.reuters.com/article/companyNewsAndPR/idUSN1821841220080318 )

There is no great catastrophe to speak of. No looming armed conflict with Iran. The Department of Energy reported this week yet another build of crude oil stocks (6.2 million bbl increase) and gasoline stocks (1.6 million bbls increase). Yet, unprecedented cash continues to flow into commodities markets and speculation runs amuck! U.S. oil prices reached an historic high of $111 per barrel this week, surpassing the previous record set earlier in the week. Heating oil has risen 70 cents in the last 30 days. A chorus of economic analysts and even OPEC are saying that price is disconnected from fundamentals’ -- there is adequate supply to meet worldwide demand! (The reason they’ve decided to hold current production levels steady, in fact!)

Online training is being offered at www.NEFI.com on 21 different customer service topics. Courses are applicable to any and all types of companies. These are professional, point-for-point customer service training, tips and techniques that can be invaluable for improving and maintaining excellent customer relations.

Your company will have 24/7/365 access to 21 professional video instructions and guidance for customer service! This is an excellent way to give your staff 24/7/365 access to proven training on customer service and response to customer issues.

The fee is $135 for access to all training sessions via video downstreaming. (Fee is only $110 for NEFI member companies.)

To review course content, with the option to enroll online and start training now, link to...

Oilheat industry associations and other trade groups are concerned over the present wording of H.R.5351, a Congressional bill that would extend the tax credits for renewable diesel fuel (biodiesel), but only for transportation diesel fuel.
Under current law, renewable diesel that meets the requirements of the American Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM) D975 or D396 standard is eligible for the renewable diesel tax credit. The House bill's wording deletes ASTM D396 (applies to heating oil and stationary sources) from the credit, and thus would restrict the renewable diesel tax credit to just ASTM D975 (transportation fuels). This is unfair to heating oil marketers who have become staunch advocates of incorporating renewable diesel fuel (derived from soybean oil and other sources) into the Oilheat product delivered to over eight million consumer households.

The wording snafu is explained in detail in a letter issued by New England Fuel Institute (www.nefi.com) to U.S. Representative Richard E. Neal, Chairman, Select Revenue Measures Subcommittee, House. Committee on Ways & Means. A letter was also sent to U.S. Senator John Kerry.

Today, you can obtain a free detailed weather forecast and climate summary for up and down the East Coast. To view and download the summary...

Read about the current energy impasse in the latest edition of NEON, the free weekly e-letter published by New England Fuel Institute (www.nefi.com).
This weeks headline news also includes:
• Senate Joins Fight To Stop Deliveries To Strategic Petroleum Reserve
• Discussion On Climate Change Legislation Intensifies
• TWIC Requirements Spreading To Non-TWIC Facilities As Security Precaution
• EPA Air Rule May Require More Widespread Use Of Reformulated Gasoline
• New Above Ground Storage Tank, Bulk Plant Recommended Practices Coming

Heating Oil Dealers Want Congress to Restore Free Market Principles to Commodities Exchanges; Shutdown May Be Necessary

March 4, 2008 (Boston, MA): Home heating oil dealers buffeted by rising energy prices called on Congress today to restore free-market principles to commodities exchanges, saying that perhaps trading should be suspended to allow Congress to put an end to rampant speculation and profiteering.

Northeast Sustainable Energy Association’s “BuildingEnergy08” Trade Show
*FREE ADMISSION* on Thursday, March 13, 2008, 10AM - 4PM

As was mentioned in a previous issue of NEON, NEFI is joining forces with northeast National Biodiesel Board (www.biodiesel.org) representatives Paul Nazzaro and Bill Riordan of Advanced Fuel Solutions (www.fuelsolution.com) and your state fuel dealer association to organize a BioHeat®-themed booth at the Northeast Sustainable Energy Association’s (NESEA) BuildingEnergy08 trade show. The show will be held from March 11-13th at the Seaport World Trade Center, Boston, MA. A guest pass for the event is available as a Pdf download.

The Children and Families Subcommittee of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP), Chaired by Senator Chris Dodd (D-Conn), has begun to look at ways to strengthen the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). The LIHEAP statute is up for reauthorization, which provides Congress an opportunity to make improvements to the twenty-five year old federal program. Senator Dodd has asked the industry for input on how it feels the program could be changed to benefit small business heating fuel dealers and their consumers. The Petroleum Marketers Association of America (PMAA), the New England Fuel Institute (NEFI), and the Independent Connecticut Petroleum Association (ICPA) will work with other industry trade groups to come up with specific recommendations to the committee.

• Action Alert: Call Your Members Of Congress Today!
• HHS Releases $40 Million in Emergency LIHEAP Aid to Cold Weather States
• Bipartisan "American-Made Energy Act" Aims For Long-Term Energy Security
• Senator: Study Into 200+ Billion Bbl North Dakota Oil Field Almost Complete
• Tier II Exemptions Only Apply To Retail Fueling Stations, Small Storage Facilities

Petroleum bulk plants, marinas and fleet fueling facilities that stored more than 10,000 pounds of hazardous chemicals (including gasoline, diesel fuel, kerosene, heating oil, propane, aviation fuels, etc.) at any time during the 2007 calendar year must file Tier II reports in compliance with the EMERGENCY PLANNING AND COMMUNITY RIGHT-TO-KNOW ACT (EPCRA). These reporting requirements only apply to stationary storage; trucks do not count toward the aggregate. Reports must be filed by March 1 with local/state emergency response authorities.

• Action Alert: Call Your Members of Congress Today!
• VT Congressman Urges Bush to Stop Shipping to SPR; Introduces Bill
• NEFI and PMAA Ask For Spot On Energy Futures Oversight Panel
• MA DEP Requires 15-PPM ULSD In Some Stationary Generators
• NBB: Biodiesel Offers Safe & Affordable RINS for 2008 & 2009

Prices May Retreat Today, But Dealers Say It's Time to Close Commodities Loopholes Once and for All

February 20, 2008 (Boston, MA): Although the price of oil has slipped back under $100, it will be back, thanks to loopholes in federal commodities regulation that let speculators manipulate the market, home heating oil dealers said today.

"Speculators and profiteers are making record profits, which are coming directly out of the pockets of American families and small businesses, and they're using loopholes in federal law to do it," Shane Sweet, of the New England Fuel Institute, said. "Congress cannot afford to dither any longer on this. They have to close these loopholes now."

Action Alert: Call Your Members of Congress Today!
Congress Fails to Provide Emergency LIHEAP Funding in Stimulus Package
PMAA Annual 'Day On The Hill' Scheduled For May
Bush Administration Flip-Flops on Weatherization Assistance
Energy Tax Bill May Form Foundation For Renewable Fuels Legislation
Senate Committee Holds Hearing On Gas Tax

Join New England Fuel Institute (NEFI) this May in Ireland, Northern Ireland and Scotland. NEFI's travel agent has secured this travel package at $700 per person off of the original price. You do not have to be a member of NEFI to attend. All are welcome! From Dublin to Blarney, Limerick to Belfast, Loch Ness to Edinburgh you'll see the best this region has to offer. Dates of the trip are May 9-24. Please link below for full details and signup form. Special rate of $5,650 ends soon. Respond at your earliest convenience or phone Tracy Goodwin at 617-924-1000.

New England Fuel Institute (NEFI) Recaps Congressional Failure to Boost LIHEAP Dollars
Congress failed to provide emergency funding for the federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). Despite unprecedented industry efforts in advocating for emergency LIHEAP funds, the U.S. Senate fell one vote shy of approving an amended economic stimulus package that would have added $1 billion to the program for the current winter.

The U.S. Senate passed, 81-16, a slimmed down economic stimulus package that does not include additional funding for Low Income Heating and Energy Assistance (LIHEAP), due to Republican opposition. The package has been sent back to the House, where it will likely receive quick consideration and go to the President for signature. (As reported by New England Fuel Institute.)

Senate Considers $1 Billion LIHEAP Boost
Industry Priorities in FY2009 Bush Budget
House Bill Would Reduce Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR)
Annual EPCRA Tier II Inventory Reporting Deadline Near
DOT Changes Shipping Paper & Placarding Requirements for Ethanol Blends
NEFI Education Announces New Financial Assistance For Students

As of Tuesday PM, Feb. 5, the U.S. Senate is scheduled to vote on the economic stimulus legislation on Wednesday. Senators Reed and Collins are expected to offer their amendment to add LIHEAP funding to the legislation. It now appears that the amendment will be for $1 billion, split 50% - 50% between block grants and contingency funds.

For the last three years heating equipment sales have been falling. Tom Tubman of Carlin Combustion gives his take on what’s been happening and what can be done to improve the situation in the February 2008 issue of Oil & Energy Magazine. Now available as a free download.

Read about Low Income Heating Assistance funding and other breaking news in this week's edition of NEON, a weekly e-letter published by New England Fuel Institute.

In Letter and Trips to Capitol Hill, Industry Urges Major Boost to LIHEAP
House Economic Stimulus Plan Would Provide Tax Rebates & Relief For Small Businesses
Trucking Industry Opposes Automatic Temperature Compensation
DOT Changes Shipping Paper Entries and Placarding for Ethanol Blends
EPA Considers Rule Controlling Vehicle and Fuel Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Home Heating Oil Dealers Swarm Capitol Hill, Urging Congressional Reps and Senators to Bolster Energy Aid in Stimulus Package
Members of the New England Fuel Institute and the Petroleum Marketers Association of America descended on Capitol Hill today as part of a coalition of advocates asking members of Congress to increase the amount of money set aside for home heating assistance this year.

In a bipartisan letter from the Northeast/Midwest coalition to the Senate leadership, 37 Senators have urged the inclusion of $3.62 Billion supplemental in that chamber’s economic stimulus package, now being hammered out behind closed doors. If the supplemental is included, it would bring the total LIHEAP funding for the current fiscal year (2008) to $5.1 billion, plus an additional $500 million in contingency funds.

Read about Strategic Petroleum Reserve and other key energy issues now at NEON online...
Senators Ask DOE to Halt Crude Diversions to Petroleum Reserve
Citizens Energy Stops Taking Applications for Fuel Assistance
EPA to Publish Rule Requiring ULSD Compliant Locomotive, Marine Engines
European Union Considers Tariffs on U.S. Bio-Diesel
Federal Studies Tout Benefits of Cellulosic Ethanol; Switchgrass
2008 Visions Conference Venue, Dates Announced

Read about LIHEAP and other key energy issues now at NEON online...
Bush Releases $450 Million Emergency LIHEAP at Urging of Industry
Senators Ask DOE to Halt Crude Diversions to Petroleum Reserve
Citizens Energy Stops Taking Applications for Fuel Assistance
EPA to Publish Rule Requiring ULSD Compliant Locomotive, Marine Engines
European Union Considers Tariffs on U.S. Bio-Diesel
Federal Studies Tout Benefits of Cellulosic Ethanol; Switchgrass
2008 Visions Conference Venue, Dates Announced

January 23, 2008 (Boston, MA) -- Congressional legislation aimed at closing the "Enron Loophole" instead leaves the door wide open for oil and gasoline speculators, according to an analysis of the measure by the New England Fuel Institute.

As announced by Citizens Energy to fuel dealers who are participating in the Citizens Energy/CITGO Oil Heat Program, Citizens ceased taking household applications for fuel assistance as of Friday, Jan. 18, 2008 due to the enormous requests for aid. For more detailed information...

Memo To Congress: The Enron Loophole Is Not Closed!
DOE Denies Request for Release from Federal Home Heating Oil Reserve
Federal Transportation Commission Wants Up To 40 CPG Increase In Gas Tax
Deadline Approaches For OSHA Workplace Injury and Illness Posting
EPA Rule On Air Toxic Standards Require Equipment Upgrades
Federal Motor Fuel Excise Tax Rates For 2008 Chart

New England Fuel Institute's Technical Training Center has new additions to their 2008 class schedule. The Training Center is an industry leader in HVAC technical training and related courses with classes held in Watertown, Mass. and satellite locations throughout New England. There are several new 1, 2 and 3 day seminars on subjects such as Equipment Sales, Electrical Troubleshooting, Applied Service Management, and Propane CETP training among others.

Obtain this and other breaking energy news from NEFI Energy News Online:
Connecticut State Delegation Wants Heating Oil Reserves Opened
NEFI Publishes Compliance Bulletin on DHS Propane Reporting Rule
Does New DHS Rule Apply To Other Petroleum Products?
Proposed FMCSA Rule Would Require New Driver Training Requirements

Petroleum marketers are facing another year of record high product costs and rampant price volatility in 2008. Lucian (Lou) Pugliaresi, president of the Energy Policy Research Foundation, Inc. (EPRINC), expects the weak U.S. dollar and the strong international demand for distillates to keep heating oil prices high. He also sees advantages in delaying the upcoming transition to low-sulfur heating oil for as long as possible.
Read Pugliaresi’s recent in-depth interview with Oil & Energy magazine on page 34 of the January 2008 issue. (Acrobat Reader 7 or higher recommended to access live links via the Pdf.)

Starting with the January 2008 issue, Oil & Energy Magazine is available as a Pdf file that can be opened on the reader’s computer. A typical issue will range from 7MB to 10MB in size, allowing for a fully readable and printable Pdf.

Jim Collura, NEFI Vice President, Government Affairs, has been invited to speak about the Enron Loophole issue on Fox Business Network tomorrow morning during their Money for Breakfast program, which runs weekdays from 7-9 am.

NEFI President Addresses Congress on Speculation
Status & Analysis of Energy Market Oversight Legislation
President Signs New Energy Bill Into Law
Congress Set to Approve Massive Funding Measure

The Energy Information Administration (EIA) has released fuel oil (distillate, residual, kerosene) sales and volume data for calendar 2006. The mild climate in most of the nation late in the year is in good part attributable to the marked drop in heating oil distribution volumes. On highway demand for distillate (diesel fuel) continued to climb.

As members are well aware, NEFI and a coalition of over 80 national, regional and state groups led the charge to Close the Enron Loophole which has contributed to excessive speculation and opened the door to manipulation and fraud in the unregulated energy commodities markets, or "dark markets."

The 12-05-07 edition of NEON, a fuel news e-letter issued by New England Fuel Institute, covers late breaking news, including:

Price Gouging May Be Dropped As Congress Steps Up Negotiations On Energy Bill
NEFI Joins National Call For Greater LIHEAP Funding
ASTM Gives Preliminary Approval To Bioheat® Equivalency; B6-B20 Biodiesel Blends
TWIC Enrollment Process Underway For Ports In Boston & Portland
GAO Criticizes Transportation Dept's Driver Drug Testing Program
Truck Manufacturers Split Over New SCR-Urea Diesel Engine Technology
Marketers to EPA: Private Insurance Carriers Not Paying UST Claims

NEFI's Legislative & Regulatory Action Center has issued an FAQ bulletin that answers many questions about the new Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) Program, created under the Maritime Transportation Security Act (MTSA). MTSA came into being in order to improve port security.

To learn which workers are required to have TWIC identification and how to obtain TWIC ID, download the pdf.

EPA has release a pdf document to explain and clarify EPA's regulatory requirements for biodiesel producers and biodiesel blenders/users. While the term biodiesel generally has a broad interpretation, as used in this guidance document, its meaning is directed specifically to biodiesel-ester.

A complete boiler package has been donated by Crown Boilers and several other accessories vendors to raise funds to benefit the family of Carl Tomberlain. Carl, 42, a PETRO employee, was shot and killed while making a service call in Philadelphia on November 7.

The Environmental Protection Agency has set a deadline for including the word “non-road” to the new descriptor for heating oil required on all Product Transfer Documents (or “PTDs,” including shipping papers and delivery tickets). The change must be made by Sunday, November 25, 2007.

The Fuel Merchants of NJ will air radio ads that draw the public's attention to speculator involvement and presumed manipulation of energy commodity trades that have lead to radically higher prices for heating oil and gasoline. Follow the link to hear the radio spots.

The 11-15-07 edition of NEON, a fuel news e-letter issued by New England Fuel Institute, covers late breaking news, including...

Major Industry "Close The Enron Loophole" Campaign Reaches Out to Media, Public and Congress
Vermont Rep Introduces "Close The Enron Loophole Act"
Congress Finalizes (And President Vetoes) $2.4 Billion for LIHEAP
Victory! DHS Drops Plan to Extend Major New Rule to Diesel Fuel Marketers
Propane Remains In Sight of New DHS Chemicals Security Rule
SBA Set To Expand Small Business Status For Heating Oil & Propane Dealers

New England Fuel Institute (NEFI) and nine state Oilheat associations have retained the public relations firm of Woodbury & Morse, of Portland, Maine, in an unprecedented collaboration that will provide quick, coordinated response to negative media publicity and proactively promote Oilheat.

The TWIC program provides a tamper-resistant biometric credential to maritime workers requiring unescorted access to secure areas of port facilities, outer continental shelf facilities, and vessels regulated under the Maritime Transportation Security Act, or MTSA, and all U.S. Coast Guard credentialed merchant mariners.

Bio-diesel pioneer Dennis K. Burke, Inc. of Chelsea, Massachusetts (www.burkeoil.com) has expanded operations into Vermont.

The U.S. Dept. Of Energy released its short-term outlook, anticipating that crude oil will move lower during 2008...

There is legislation introduced in the House and Senate that will help bring transparency and accountability to energy commodity markets.
New England Fuel Institute and others are urging dealer members, constituents, and concerned citizens to contact their Senators and Representatives to garner support for these legislative measures...

2% level for heating oil would be mandatory by 2010...

The prices for crude oil, gasoline, heating oil, natural gas, propane, and other commodities have been at the mercy of energy traders, who have used the little-known “Enron Loophole” to cash in at the expense of families and small businesses. The Energy Market Oversight Committee is a coalition of over 80 concerned organizations seeking greater oversight to create a more level and stable trading field for fuels and commodities.

On December 12, 2007 from 9:00 am - 3:30 pm industry expert Bob Hedden will present this valuable seminar on improving your equipment sales skills at New England Fuel Institute's Technical Training Center in Watertown, Mass. This is a NORA approved course and attendees will receive 6 CEUs.

The U.S. House of Representatives failed to override a Presidential veto on legislation that would fund an expanded federal health care program for children through a 61-cent per pack increase in the federal cigarette tax. The legislation, known as the State Children’s Health Insurance Program (or SCHIP) would have raised the federal tax on cigarettes to a total of $1.00 per pack. The 273-156 vote was just 13 votes shy of the total needed to overturn the President’s veto. President Bush had taken odds with expanding the program’s benefits beyond families within 200 percent of the poverty level – the bill would provide benefits to families earning three times the poverty level ($62,000 for a family of four).

Since there will be no formal energy conference, the House and Senate have been holding informal talks between committee chairmen in order to pass an energy bill that will combine the two very diverse bills, the Senate’s H.R.6 and the House’s H.R.3221. One of the biggest items in the energy bill is the renewable fuels mandate in the Senate bill which would increase biofuels production to 36 billion gallons by 2022.

The Senate has approved $2.16 billion for the FY08 federal LIHEAP program,
$1 billion less than the FY06 level and $500 million less than the FY08 package approved by the House. Part of the Labor, Health and Human Services (HHS) and Education Department Appropriations bill, the Senate funding provides $1.9 billion in formula grants to states and $182 million in emergency funding which can be released under the discretion of the President.

A diversified coalition established by NEFI and PMAA that includes more than 80 national, regional and state agriculture, motor vehicle and home heating fuel, public power and consumer advocacy associations sent a letter to every member of Congress urging them to cosponsor the “Close the Enron Loophole Act” (S.2058) recently introduced by Senator Carl Levin of Michigan. A virtually identical bill has been introduced in the House of
Representatives this week by Reps. Peter Welch (D-VT) and Rob Andrews
(D-NJ).

Update Courtesy of National Fuel Funds Network
October 25, 2007
SENATE PASSES FY08 LABOR HHS APPROPRIATIONS BILL WITH LIHEAP AT SAME LEVEL AS FYO7.

The Senate passed the FY 2008 Labor, HHS Appropriations bill last night. The vote was 75-19 and would have been 80-20 had Kennedy, Dodd, Obama, Biden and McCain been present to vote on the bill. While the President has threatened to veto the bill, there is now a veto-proof margin in the Senate, and the House is short by about 6 votes.

The Senate bill maintains LIHEAP at the FY 07 funding level of $2.16 billion ($1.98 billion in basic grant and $181.7 million in contingency); the House includes a $500 million increase for a total of $2.66 billion ($1.98 billion in basic grant and $681.7 million in contingency).

The next step will be the conference where LIHEAP advocates will have to fight to keep the additional $500 million in contingency funding for LIHEAP that was included in the House bill passed in July.

LIHEAP and most other HHS, Education and Labor Department programs are operating at the FY 2007 levels, by means of a Continuing Resolution that expires on November 16. According to the National Energy Assistance Directors' Association, HHS hopes to get first quarter LIHEAP apportionment and funds out to the states by the end of the week.

The Energy Market Oversight Coalition and its more than 80 national, regional and state agricultural, motor vehicle and home heating fuel, public power and consumer groups are seeking support of the “Close the Enron Loophole Act” (S.2058), introduced by Senator Carl Levin of Michigan. In light of unprecedented speculation and volatility in the energy commodity markets, the bill aims to close the gaps in federal law that allow energy profiteers to distort the price of energy for personal gain. New England Fuel Institute is a prominent member of the coalition.