ENTERPRISE, Ala.—U.S. Rep. Barry Moore is focused on reforming modern gas can regulations. Since becoming a congressman in 2021, Moore has gained support, including a potential U.S. Senate seat after former President Donald Trump’s endorsement.
Trump praised Moore on Truth Social for his longstanding support, calling him a “fighter” and endorsing him for the Senate. Moore recently introduced the “Freedom to Fuel Act,” seeking to exempt gas cans from federal emissions regulations.
The legislation aims to bypass restrictions on emissions from portable fuel containers. Critics argue these regulations, designed to prevent spills and exposure to harmful chemicals, are necessary. The reform echoes similar actions taken by Trump-era EPA officials, who in 2025 aimed to alter gas-can rules to “make gas cans great again” by communicating with manufacturers.
Moore’s legislation would entirely exempt gas cans from Clean Air Act limits, which the EPA emphasizes are crucial for reducing cancer risks associated with benzene exposure from gasoline, per the CDC. The 2007 EPA rule aimed to minimize emissions, requiring manufacturers to meet specific standards.
Moore’s office did not comment on whether the legislation would enhance gas can design. Gas can designs have evolved due to bipartisan laws like the Children’s Gasoline Burn Prevention Act, which mandates child-resistant features. This act was prompted by injury statistics, such as the 1,270 cases of child injuries from unsecured gas cans reported in 2003.
Republicans are also pushing to repeal the Children’s Gasoline Burns Prevention Act. The Gas Can Freedom Act of 2025, with 12 Republican cosponsors, aims to eliminate these requirements. Rep. Julie Fedorchak supports Moore’s efforts, arguing gas can emissions are insignificant, despite EPA data suggesting the opposite.
The EPA’s 2007 report highlighted substantial cumulative emissions from portable fuel containers, warranting regulation. Even if Moore’s bill passes, child-resistant caps would remain mandatory unless further legislation succeeds.
In a 2007 hearing, debates arose over the necessity of regulating gas cans, balancing the rare occurrence of accidents against public safety needs.
Original Story at insideclimatenews.org