Ohio lawmakers introduce bill that would allow counties to test gas station fuel quality
COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) – If an Ohio bill is signed into law, local counties may begin testing the quality of motor fuel at gas stations.
Senate Bill 80, sponsored by Sens. Catherine Ingram (D-Cincinnati) and Willis Blackshear Jr. (D-Dayton), would enable county auditors to implement programs for testing the quality of motor fuel at gas stations. The legislation would permit inspectors to test for octane levels, as well as sediment and water in fuel.
'This bill represents an essential step toward protecting Ohio's consumers, promoting environmental sustainability, and ensuring the integrity of the motor fuels used by our residents every day,' Ingram said at an introductory hearing for the bill in February.
While Ohio law already presents the opportunity for the state Director of Agriculture to establish a statewide motor fuel quality testing program, one has not yet been created. Ohio is one of only three states that does not have a statewide program for fuel quality testing, according to the lawmakers. In other states, inspections are typically conducted annually, while some opt to test whenever there are customer complaints.
Currently, Ohio law does not allow for a quality testing program at the county level. County auditors have inspectors who visit gas stations to test for the quantity of fuel, but not quality.
Low-quality fuel can lead to engine damage, reduced fuel efficiency and increased air pollution, Ingram said. Repairs needed after fueling with contaminated gas can cost hundreds to thousands of dollars, depending on the severity of the damage.
'When consumers are putting gas into their car, they want to be assured that the product they are putting into their vehicle is safe, and that they are not being 'sold short,'' Blackshear said at the February hearing. 'By allowing our county auditors to implement this program they can give local consumers an enhanced peace of mind knowing that the fuel they are using has been checked and is accurate.'
The bill would require fuel inspectors to relay data collected from testing programs to the Director of Agriculture, who would then compile that information and make it accessible to the public online. It would also allow each county auditor to make their own decision on if implementing a program is feasible, Blackshear said.
Multiple similar bills have been introduced in past general assemblies, but have not made it through a legislative session. The most recent was introduced by Ingram in May 2024, which did not progress to the point of receiving a hearing.
Currently, only Summit County operates a motor fuel quality testing program in Ohio, as it is a charter county and has certain home rule powers most other counties do not. Cuyahoga is the only other charter county in Ohio.
SB 80 was assigned to the Senate's Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee, where it awaits proponent and opponent testimony. Sen. Hearcel Craig (D-Columbus) is cosponsoring the bill.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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