Use of Alternative Analytical Test Methods in the Reformulated Gasoline Program

This direct final rule extends the time period during which certain alternative analytical test methods may be used in the Federal reformulated gasoline (RFG) program to September 1, 2004. The time period for the use of these alternative methods originally expired on January 1, 1997 and was previously extended to September 1, 1998 and September 1, 2000. This direct final rule also updates each of these alternative methods ton achieve more accurate results and to make them easier to perform. The purpose of today's extension is to grant temporary flexibility until we issue a final performance-based analytical test methods rule.