The Renewable Fuels Association thanked Sens. Joni Ernst (R-IA) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Reps. Adrian Smith (R-NE) and Nikki Budzinski (D-IL) for leading the introduction of the bipartisan Ethanol for America Act in the Senate and House, which would require the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to finalize a proposed rule that streamlines E15 fuel dispenser labeling and equipment compatibility demonstration requirements.
RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper praised the lawmakers for supporting what he called a practical solution to benefit consumers and strengthen the economy. “We are grateful to Sens. Ernst and Klobuchar, and Reps. Smith and Budzinski, for championing this legislation. It’s a smart move that can help lower fuel prices, enhance energy security, and expand opportunities for America’s farmers,” Cooper said. He emphasized that increasing access to higher ethanol blends like E15 is one of the best strategies to reduce fuel costs and protect the market from international supply disruptions. Removing regulatory obstacles to E15 storage and distribution, he noted, is key to achieving those goals.
The Senate version of the bill, S. 2591, has also gained support from Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), and Richard Durbin (D-IL) as original cosponsors. On the House side, Representatives Dusty Johnson (R-SD), Tracey Mann (R-KS), Derek Schmidt (R-KS), Mike Flood (R-NE), Randy Feenstra (R-IA), and Brad Finstad (R-MN) have signed on as original cosponsors to H.R. 4864.
In a letter sent to President Trump in June, Cooper highlighted the outdated regulations that continue to limit the availability of ethanol products like E15 in the marketplace. He pointed out that many fuel retailers are deterred from offering E15 due to confusing rules, mistakenly believing they must upgrade or replace existing infrastructure. “This reluctance persists despite extensive research confirming that most existing equipment is already compatible with E15,” Cooper wrote.
