River Bend Times

Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks, along with a group of bipartisan colleagues, has introduced the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act in an effort to codify the year-round sale of E15 ethanol blends. This legislative initiative aims to extend the Reid vapor pressure (RVP) volatility waiver, facilitating nationwide sales of fuel containing up to 15% ethanol throughout the year.

The companion bill was presented in the Senate by Sens. Deb Fischer and Tammy Duckworth. "Iowa’s farmers and consumers deserve the certainty of year-round E15," Rep. Miller-Meeks stated, highlighting the potential benefits for cost reduction at gas pumps, emission reductions, and energy supply stability.

Rep. Adrian Smith expressed support for eliminating barriers to E15 access: "I have been fighting to eliminate unnecessary, unscientific, and misguided barriers to E15 access since 2010." He emphasized that such measures would provide relief at fuel stations while ensuring consistent production levels.

Rep. Angie Craig also underscored biofuels' role in addressing climate change: "Homegrown biofuels are tools we have right now to address climate change," adding that this legislation represents a sensible approach needed in Washington.

Rep. Dusty Johnson pointed out that "year-round availability of E15 will boost American-made fuel" which he believes will positively impact both economic conditions and environmental quality.

From Illinois, Rep. Nikki Budzinski highlighted how higher biofuel blends benefit consumers financially while reducing foreign oil dependency: "Higher blends of biofuels help folks save money at the gas pump."

Senator Fischer reiterated her commitment to realizing President Trump's pledge on E15 sales: “It’s time to once and for all solidify President Trump’s pledge.”

This move follows previous challenges impacting market certainty for E15 fuels due primarily from legal rulings affecting EPA's expansion capabilities; thus prompting legislative efforts aimed at securing its permanent position within national markets as part of broader strategies toward sustainable energy futures across America.