The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced Friday that it will uphold its April 28 implementation date, allowing year-round sales of E15 fuel in eight Midwestern states. The decision, requested by governors of Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin, ensures regulatory certainty for fuel suppliers and expands consumer access to the higher ethanol blend. EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin says, “[Friday’s] decision underscores EPA’s commitment to consumer access to E15 while ensuring a smooth transition for fuel suppliers and refiners. Our approach provides certainty for states that are ready to move forward with year-round E15 while accommodating those that requested additional time. We will continue working with all stakeholders to ensure available and affordable fuel supply.” While the ruling moves forward as planned, the EPA will consider one-year compliance delays for states needing more time. For example, Ohio has already requested an extension, and the EPA encourages others to submit written requests by Feb. 26. Iowa Renewable Fuels Association Executive Director Monte Shaw says, “Even as we continue to work on a preferable, nationwide solution, [Friday’s] EPA announcement means that retailers in the Midwest know they will not have to bag pumps, consumers know they will not have to pay 15-20 cents more per gallon, and farmers know a key growth opportunity for corn demand will not disappear. IRFA is deeply grateful to EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin for standing by farmers and consumers to ensure access to E15 this summer.” Congress is also negotiating a nationwide legislative solution to allow year-round E15 sales. Without action, the EPA may issue emergency fuel waivers under the Clean Air Act to prevent supply disruptions and protect consumers from price volatility.
