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“Connecticut families and businesses are getting bruised by the soaring cost of everyday necessities like gas and groceries,” Governor Rell said. “One major factor in this unhappy duet is the price of corn – demand for the crop as a source of ethanol is competing fiercely with demand for corn as food, additives in products such as soft drinks and animal feed. “Not only are those price pressures playing havoc with consumers, but the demand for corn is also driving up prices for other major crops like rice, wheat and soybeans,” the Governor said. “Farmers looking for a good price are opting for corn instead of other crops or altering their crop rotation patterns, so production of other grains is affected. “I believe urgent national action is needed to relieve some of these demand pressures so consumers can catch a break on prices,” Governor Rell said. “Encouraging more imports of ethanol from Brazil – where ethanol is made from sugar rather than corn – will ease some of the pressure. So will temporary relief from the mandates in the Renewable Fuel Standards, which require billions of gallons of ethanol to help stretch supplies of gasoline and reduce our dependence on imported oil.” The Governor’s testimony noted that neither of these steps is likely to have a long-term negative effect on U.S. energy goals, the environment or farmers. Demand for ethanol will undoubtedly continue to rise, meaning investment in domestic ethanol production will not be lost; federal requirements for ethanol use in cities where smog is a problem will not be affected; and demand for corn for uses other than ethanol production is so high that American farmers should have no trouble selling their crop. “Ultimately, however, the most persuasive argument must be the competing pressures on American family budgets,” Governor Rell told the Senate committee, chaired by U.S. Sen. Joe Lieberman (D-Conn.). “The twin hammer blows of energy price increases and food price increases warrant this action.” The Governor also reiterated her recommendation for a second national stimulus package to help families. The first stimulus, now being distributed, is likely to be consumed as taxpayers cope with debts and staggering price spikes. “We need help now,” Governor Rell said. “Congress and the President must review current policy and take effective action on a national scale to address these problems.” © Copyright by NorwalkPlus.com. Some articles and pictures posted on our website, as indicated by their bylines, were submitted as press releases and do not necessarily reflect the position and opinion of NorwalkPlus.com, Norwalk Plus magazine, Canaiden LLC or any of its associated entities. Articles may have been edited for brevity and grammar. Related Articles: Westport Arts Center presents soul and gospel legend Mavis Staples - Aug 20, 2008 - 7:40:05 AM New details of energy bill for Friday’s special session - Aug 19, 2008 - 4:50:20 PM Local companies demonstrate commitment to lifelong learning by supporting Stepping Stones Museum for Children’s Companies for Kids - Aug 19, 2008 - 3:14:52 PM Action taken to remove Bantry Bay Seafood products from stores - Aug 19, 2008 - 2:50:36 PM Spectacular three-day event to celebrate energy conservation - Aug 17, 2008 - 11:37:16 AM CURRENT HEADLINES: Top of Page
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