5/16/08-Gov. Tim Pawlenty signed a bill into law this week to increase the biodiesel blend offered in the state to 20 percent by 2015. Seasonal exceptions would apply.
Minnesota law now requires large trucks fueling in the state to use a fuel blend that contains at least 2 percent biodiesel during most of the year.
The new law, previously SF3683, increases the biodiesel blend offered in the state to at least 5 percent next year. It will be raised to 10 percent in 2012 and top out at 20 percent in 2015.
During the cold-weather months of November through March, the requirement will drop back to 5 percent. The exception will continue a policy in the state of easing off the biodiesel mandate in colder months because historically the fuel contributed to operating problems for diesel-powered vehicles during that time period.

4/21/08-A bill awaiting consideration on the Senate floor includes a provision that would increase the biodiesel blend offered in the state to 20 percent by 2015. Seasonal exceptions would apply.
Minnesota law now requires large trucks fueling in the state to use a fuel blend that contains at least 2 percent biodiesel during most of the year.
Sponsored by Sen. Jim Vickerman, DFL-Tracy, SF3683 would increase the biodiesel blend offered in the state to at least 5 percent next year. It would be raised to 10 percent in 2012 and top out at 20 percent in 2015.
In the winter months, the requirement would drop back to 5 percent. The exception would continue a policy in the state of easing off the biodiesel mandate in colder months because historically the fuel contributed to operating problems for diesel-powered vehicles during that time period.
Also included in the bill is a provision to use $500,000 for the research into algae as fuel.
For Senate bill status, call (651) 296-0504.