I don't even know what to say about this... other than to repeat my common mantra... that government only causes problems... never solves them:

Bob Teixeira spent $1,200 to convert his 1981 Mercedes from diesel to soybean oil. In response, North Carolina's tax collector issued a $1,000 fine and told him to expect to receive a similar levy from the federal government.

His crime? He didn't put up a $2,500 bond and apply for a state fuel license. (It didn't help that he drove past revenue agents with a bumper sticker that said:  "Powered by 100% vegetable oil.")

"With the high cost of fuel right now, the department does recognize that a lot of people are looking for relief," Reggie Little, assistant director of the tax agency's motor fuel taxes division, tells the Charlotte Observer. "We're not here to hurt the small guy, we're just trying to make sure that the playing field is level."

So it's not about the environment... it's not about conservation... it's not even about proper regulation.  It's about making sure the government still get's it's tax dollars.  Always remember that.  That's all the government cares about... maintaining itself.