Senate sidetracks move to repeal ethanol credit

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate has sidetracked a move to end the federal subsidy for ethanol, a corn-based additive blended with gasoline to make alternative fuel.

The vote was 40-59, less than a majority and far fewer than the 60 needed to advance the measure drafted by Oklahoma Republican Sen. Tom Coburn.

Coburn and others said the subsidy is a waste of money, particularly in an era of record federal deficits.

Defenders included farm state lawmakers who said the 45-cents-per-gallon subsidy helps reduce American dependence on imported oil.

The subsidy costs the taxpayers an estimated $5 billion dollars a year.

Other votes on the issue are expected next week in the Senate.

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