Steelman backs repeal of Missouri ethanol mandate

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) -- Republican gubernatorial candidate Sarah Steelman is calling for the repeal of Missouri's ethanol mandate.

A state law that took effect in January requires gas stations to sell a 10 percent ethanol blend whenever it is not more expensive than traditional gasoline.

The ethanol mandate was one of the priorities that Republican Matt Blunt announced when he campaigned for governor four years ago.

But it has come under criticism from people who believe the incresed supply of corn-based fuel is partly to blame for rising food and livestock feed prices.

Steelman is outlining the ethanol repeal as part of her energy proposals being announced Tuesday at campaign events in St. Louis, Springfield and Joplin.