River Bend Times

Four U.S. Representatives, Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01), Nikki Budzinski (IL-13), Adrian Smith (NE-03), and Mark Pocan (WI-02), have taken a significant step in advocating for E15 fuel. In a letter addressed to key legislative figures, the representatives called for a legislative solution to allow the voluntary sale of E15 year-round nationwide.

In the letter, the legislators emphasized the importance of ensuring certainty in the voluntary sale of E15, stating, "We write to express our support for swift passage of a legislative solution which would allow motor vehicle fuel containing 15 percent ethanol (E15) to be voluntarily sold year-round throughout the country." They highlighted the necessity for a permanent law that provides assurance for producers and consumers in all states, especially following the recent EPA final rule permitting the year-round sale of E15 in eight Midwestern states starting in 2025.

The initiative has garnered support beyond the four lead representatives, with a significant number of cosigners joining the cause. The letter was also signed by a list of other representatives who share the commitment to supporting E15, showcasing a unified effort towards this legislative goal.

The call for a legislative solution to enable the year-round sale of E15 reflects the recognition from various sectors, including governors, agriculture producers, ethanol refiners, oil refiners, retailers, and the automotive industry, of the importance of establishing a consistent framework for E15 sales nationwide.

The full text of the letter, along with the collective support of the cosigners, underscores the momentum behind the push for a permanent solution regarding the voluntary sale of E15 fuel.