I don't think so, but I want to hear what you guys have to say about it.

Does it take power away from the motor?


This is completely theoretical, I just want opinions and facts, not smog laws.

I doesn't have any effect on performance, as its not in use at idle or at WOT - its only used under light throttle/cruise conditions. It's known to help fuel economy noticeably - meaning that most people who disable it LOSE fuel mileage and gain nothing in return. If it works fine, leave it alone. If it doesn't work, fix it. You gain nothing from removing it.

It also helps keep the cylinder temperatures lower, which keeps the engine from knocking or pinging.

The biggest knock against it is because its dirty exhaust gasses, the carbon gets into the intake passages and makes them dirty too.