WASHINGTON - The U.S. House voted to block the EPA from spending money to allow the sale of gasoline with as much as 15 percent ethanol, handing automakers at least a temporary victory in getting more time to test the fuel.

The House amendment, introduced by Rep. John Sullivan, R-Okla., would prevent EPA from approving any gas-station surveys that are required before the outlets can sell E15 gasoline, a Sullivan spokesman said. The EPA's goal has been to reduce dependence on imported oil, reported Automotive News.

Last month, the EPA granted a waiver letting fueling stations sell E15 for cars, SUVs and light pickups from the 2001 model year and later. The fuel's 15 percent ethanol content is an increase from 10 percent.

The Sullivan amendment would prevent EPA from approving any gas-station surveys that are required before the outlets can sell E15 gasoline, a Sullivan spokesman said.

EPA had said that companies seeking to sell E15 had to survey retailers to ensure they were using the proper labels on ethanol dispensers to avoid customer confusion. The federal agency has to approve these plans. If EPA can't approve these plans, E15 gas can't be sold, Sullivan spokesman Vaughn Jennings said.

The automakers' leading trade group today praised the House passage of the amendment.

"The House overwhelmingly agreed to put consumers first and ensure adequate testing is conducted before higher levels of ethanol are introduced," said Gloria Bergquist, a spokeswoman for the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers.

The Alliance, which represents General Motors, Toyota, Ford and nine other automakers, says the government hasn't done enough testing to ensure that E15 will be safe for vehicle engines.

The Sullivan amendment would prohibit EPA spending on E15 through Sept. 30.

There are more than 150 million vehicles made since 2001 on U.S. roads, and they account for 74 percent of vehicle gasoline consumption, an EPA spokeswoman said.

She declined comment on the House legislation.

A group of ethanol producers, who have more support in the Senate than in the House, said ethanol has been "thoroughly tested."

"If the chaos in the Middle East teaches us anything, it should be that America must forcefully begin down the path of energy self-reliance," the Renewable Fuels Association said.

In December, U.S. carmakers asked an appeals court to block the EPA plan for use of E15.