Trump Highlights E15 Expansion Proposal During Iowa Rally

President Trump voiced support for a legislative proposal to allow year-round sales of higher-ethanol E15 gasoline during a rally near Des Moines, IA, last week, attended by farmers and biofuel supporters. The proposal would lift seasonal limits that restrict E15 sales in some areas during summer months and would also reduce the number of refineries eligible for exemptions from annual federal biofuel-blending requirements.

Supporters argue expanded E15 access could strengthen the domestic biofuels market and benefit consumers, farmers, and fuel suppliers—especially in corn-producing states like Iowa. However, some small and mid-sized refining advocates warn the related exemption changes could hurt refinery economics.

Lawmakers have so far declined to attach the E15 provisions to a federal spending bill. Instead, they approved a measure establishing a rural domestic energy council to study the issue, delaying action on broader legislation. The delay has prompted criticism from farm and biofuel groups that have long pushed to expand ethanol market access.

Source: FarmProgress.com