Wisconsin Ethanol Coalition: 37 Agricultural, Manufacturing, Business, Labor, and Municipal Organizations Join the Wisconsin Ethanol Coalition

Contact: Joshua Morby (414) 791-9120

MADISON – Momentum for the passage of legislation that would require ethanol to be blended with Wisconsin gasoline continues to grow. The Wisconsin Ethanol Coalition today announced a host of new partners in the effort to pass Assembly Bill 15, legislation that will spur new jobs, lower emissions, and lower gas prices.

Labor unions joining the coalition today include the Operating Engineers Local 139, Steamfitters Local 601, the Wisconsin Pipe Trades Association, and the United Association of Plumbers and Steamfitters.

Agricultural organizations joining the coalition today include the Wisconsin Dairy Business Association, the Wisconsin Agribusiness Council, Wisconsin Veterinary Medical Association, Mid-State Equipment, Wisconsin Cattlemen’s Association, Syngenta Seeds Inc., Syngenta Crop Protection, Inc., NK Brand Seeds, Garst Seed Company, Golden Harvest Seeds, Inc., and the National Farmers Organization.

Manufacturers joining the coalition today include Apache Stainless Equipment Corp., Case New Holland and Dawes Rigging and Crane Rental.

Local officials also signed on this week as the Wisconsin Towns Association also announced their support of AB 15.

“Ethanol is good for the state and good for the working men and women of Wisconsin for many reasons,” said Terry McGowan, business manager of Operating Engineers Local 139. “We strongly support this legislation because it will directly result in new, good paying jobs throughout the state.”

There are currently four ethanol plants on line in Wisconsin and two more under construction.

“When this legislation passes, it will create the need for additional capacity. This will generate the need for additional fuel from existing facilities and drive the demand for the construction of new refineries,” said Bill Oemichen, President and CEO of the Wisconsin Federation of Cooperatives, a lead partner in the coalition. “This will result in new jobs across the state and throughout many different economic sectors.”

These new members join a long list of businesses and organizations in their support of the ethanol industry. For a list of additional supporters and to find out more about the ethanol industry, please visit www.wisconsinethanol.com.

The Wisconsin Ethanol Coalition is a diverse group of businesses, environmental, statewide groups and local organizations that have come together to build both public and legislative awareness of ethanol issues in Wisconsin. The ethanol industry is proud to have the support of both Republican and Democratic legislators, as well as Wisconsin Governor Jim Doyle.

Governor Doyle supports this legislation and has pledged to sign it into law once it reaches his desk.