During a public rally in Clive, Iowa, President Donald Trump emphasized the urgency of Congress passing a measure that would authorize the continuous sale of E15 gasoline across the United States. E15 gasoline, defined by its 15% ethanol composition, is a fuel blend recognized primarily in agricultural regions for its role in boosting demand for corn, a critical input in ethanol production.
Trump described the ongoing discussions with House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Majority Leader John Thune as positive, stating that lawmakers are "very close to getting it done." The president reiterated his commitment to implementing the year-round availability of E15 immediately upon legislative approval. This policy push aligns with his previous campaign promises and attempts during his administration to enact similar regulations.
Currently, regulatory constraints hinder the sale of E15 gasoline during months starting May 1 in numerous states. The restrictions aim to mitigate the formation of smog, especially during warmer weather conditions. Although exceptions have been granted intermittently — including waivers from both Trump and President Joe Biden in response to elevated fuel prices — a permanent solution has yet to be enacted. Notably, Trump's earlier efforts through the Environmental Protection Agency to establish year-round E15 sales were impeded by the Supreme Court, which declined to overturn a lower court ruling invalidating the plan.
The campaign for permanent year-round E15 sales is significant in agricultural states such as Iowa and Nebraska, where ethanol production underpins the local economy. The corn industry benefits notably from increased ethanol demand, with local farmers viewing E15 as a crucial factor in their economic sustainability.
The Iowa Corn Growers Association expressed strong support for the proposed legislation. Steve Kuiper, Vice President of the association, characterized the approval of year-round E15 sales as a "lifeline" essential for many farmers' continued operations. Prior to the president's appearance in Iowa, advocacy organizations such as the Iowa Corn and the Iowa Renewable Fuels Association had actively lobbied for permanent legislative action, emphasizing the importance of stable and extended access to E15 for the state’s economic health.
Farmers assert that fuels with higher ethanol content not only provide cost advantages but also contribute to reduced environmental impact. They argue that the current summer sales restrictions are outdated and unnecessary, suggesting that Congress should revisit and potentially eliminate these rules to facilitate broader E15 availability throughout the year.
The timing of Trump's advocacy comes amidst statements from Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy praising the administration’s stewardship of fuel prices, which currently average $2.879 per gallon. This figure represents a notable decrease compared to the $3.120 per gallon observed at the same time during the previous year. These pricing trends contribute to the argument that expanded E15 sales could offer further consumer relief.
The policy discussion reflects a balancing act between environmental concerns related to smog control and economic support for key agricultural sectors, alongside consumer interests in affordable fuel options.