Colorado Revised Statutes Title 25. Health § 25-7-139. Methyl tertiary butyl ether--prohibition--phase-out--civil penalty

(1) The general assembly finds and declares that methyl tertiary butyl ether (“MTBE”) is an oxygenate used in gasoline and other fuel products in this state and in the United States. The general assembly also finds that MTBE may leak into and contaminate groundwater supplies, and that MTBE is water soluble and therefore is difficult and costly to remove from water. MTBE is colorless, tastes and smells like turpentine, and can be tasted and detected by smell at extremely low concentrations. MTBE may be a human carcinogen and poses other potential health risks, including but not limited to memory loss, asthma, and skin irritation.

(2) The general assembly further finds and declares that water is precious and vital to this state's growing population, agricultural industry, and unique environment. Therefore it is the intent of the general assembly in enacting this section to halt further contamination and pollution of this state's groundwater supplies by MTBE.

(4) Any person who violates the provisions of this section shall be subject to a civil penalty as provided in section 25-7-122(1)(e).