Today (Wednesday), Iowa politicians are cheering the introduction of new legislation at the federal level that will pave the way for permanent, nationwide E15 availability. Iowa Senators Chuck Grassley and Joni Ernst, along with a bipartisan group of senators, brought the Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act to the Senate. The bill would extend the 1-psi summertime Reid Vapor Pressure (RVP) volatility waiver for ethanol blends over 10% and allow for E15 sales around the year. Grassley says, “As gas prices remain painfully high for many Americans, we consistently see E15 provides consumers with more affordable options for filling up their tanks. Ethanol is good for the economy, good for national security, and good for the environment.” Ernst released a similar statement saying, “Homegrown ethanol is the cheaper, cleaner option to relieve pain at the pump, and we’ve seen the benefits of year-round E15 sales right here in Iowa. By ensuring the year-round sale of higher blends of ethanol across the country, we will bring much-needed certainty to our corn growers, who stand ready to fulfill demands from coast to coast.” Gov. Kim Reynolds, who joined with seven other Midwestern governors this year in requesting the EPA grant a permanent RVP waiver, says, “This is exciting news, and I encourage its quick passage through Congress so that it can be signed into law.” The bill has garnered support from various associated groups, including the National Corn Growers Association, Renewable Fuels of America, Growth Energy, and the American Petroleum Institute.
