FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Comptroller Franchot Lifts Gasoline Pressure Requirements to Increase Supply

--Heavier-blend Gasoline Now Available for Sale--

ANNAPOLIS, MD (Sept. 18, 2008) - Comptroller Peter Franchot, mindful of the lingering impact of Hurricane Ike on oil refineries in the Gulf region, today announced that gasoline with a vapor pressure up to 13.5 psi (pounds per square inch) may now be sold, in addition to 11.5 psi gas.

"The quality of gas currently being allowed into the market is not in question. There is no shortage of gas in Maryland, and we do not expect one," said Comptroller Franchot. "This action is simply a matter of doing what is necessary to increase supply and helping consumers with the recent spike in gas prices in the wake of the storm."

Normally, this heavier-blend of gasoline, designed to be used in cooler temperatures, would be restricted from sale until Oct. 1. That is because the 13.5 psi gasoline evaporates at a higher rate than 11.5 psi-weighted fuel, which is normally used from Sept. 15 to 30. According to ASTM (American Society for Testing of Materials) regulations, 13.5 psi fuel is restricted for sale from May through September, due to summer temperatures, in order to prevent occurrences of vapor lock and pollution.

Inversely, the sale of 11.5 psi gasoline is restricted from January through April and October through December, to avoid difficulties when starting an automobile. The 12-day early change to 13.5 psi fuel is not expected to cause any adverse reactions to vehicles from its use.

For more information, contact the Comptroller's Motor-fuel, Alcohol & Tobacco Tax Regulatory Division, at 410-260-7131. For the latest news about the Comptroller and Maryland taxes, visit www.marylandtaxes.com.

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CONTACT: Warren Hansen, 410-260-7082 (office), 410-212-1475 (cell)