U.S. House Farm Bill Amendment Proposes Year-Round E15 Access, Aims to Benefit Farmers and Consumers
An amendment to the U.S. House farm bill is proposing to allow year-round sales of E15, a gasoline blend containing 15% ethanol. This move is supported by Iowa and U.S. ethanol and corn groups, who argue that E15 provides a more affordable fuel option for consumers while supporting American farmers. Currently, E10, which contains 10% ethanol, is available year-round, but E15 sales have been restricted during summer months due to concerns about smog. The amendment aims to address these restrictions, which some industry experts claim are based on outdated science. The proposal has gained momentum after a task force, co-led by U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra, worked to reach a compromise following a previous deal that fell apart. The amendment is seen as a significant step forward for E15 advocates, who have been lobbying for unrestricted sales for over 15 years.