The year-round E15 debate has been on a rollercoaster since the Biden administration lifted the summer ban of E15 sales in 2022 due to the war in Ukraine.
The debate is heating up once more with the House and Senate both reintroducing year-round E15 legislation this week.
How it Started
Congressmembers, state governors and ethanol industry proponents in the past have pushed for amendments to the Clean Air Act that would permanently enable the sale of year-round E15. The crusade was put on hold with EPA’s proposed rule that would push sales into 2024.
Related story: EPA’s Year-Round E15 Proposed Rule Pushes Sales into 2024
“There is simply no justification for further delaying this action, which is already months overdue,” said Geoff Cooper, Renewable Fuel Association (RFA) president and CEO. “By law, EPA should have finalized approval of the governors’ petition more than seven months ago, which would have given the marketplace more than enough time to adjust and prepare for implementation this summer.”
Backlash
While Iowa and Nebraska attorney generals have weighed suing EPA for its delayed ruling, members of Congress feel the matter should be dealt with through legislative process.
“Our bipartisan legislation is the only permanent, nationwide solution to unleashing the power of year-round E15,” said Sen. Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) in a press release. “Negating the need for a patchwork of regulations will ensure all Americans can enjoy lower costs at the pump.”
Related story: US Ethanol Industry Again Loses by Winning
Congress’ moves have been applauded by industry leaders, like the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA).
“There’s no reason for market access to a safe, clean and affordable fuel option to remain in question, and we urge Congress to pass this commonsense legislation,” said Tom Haag, NCGA president.
According to Haag, Congress’s legislative changes will be a necessary solution to resolve an “outdated barrier” to consumer choice.
