By Andi Anderson
A new bipartisan bill, the “Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act,” has been introduced to allow consumers year-round access to higher ethanol blends, specifically E15.
This legislation is being celebrated by both the Illinois Corn Growers Association (IL Corn) and the National Corn Growers Association, as it would remove current restrictions on ethanol sales, especially during the summer months.
Illinois farmer and IL Corn Growers Association President Dave Rylander expressed the importance of the legislation, stating that it benefits both consumers and farmers.
It is expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, lower fuel prices, and provide stability for the Illinois corn market, which is vital for rural economies in the state.
Nearly one-third of Illinois corn is used for ethanol production, making this bill a significant opportunity for farmers to sustain their investments in sustainable practices.
Expanding year-round access to E15 supports both energy independence and environmental benefits for the Midwest region.
The bill is led by U.S. Representatives Adrian Smith (R-Neb.), Angie Craig (D-Minn.), and several others, including Illinois representatives Nikki Budzinski (D-IL), Mike Bost (R-IL), and Robin Kelly (D-IL).
It aims to address the limitations set by current federal policy, which restricts the sale of E15 during summer due to Clean Air Act regulations.
Although the Biden administration has provided temporary waivers in recent years, this legislation offers a permanent solution. Similar legislation has also been introduced in the Senate by Senators Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) and Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), with strong support from corn growers.
The corn farming community is now calling on Congress and the president to ensure this bill becomes law. By removing a key market barrier, the legislation could provide much-needed relief to farmers and consumers alike.
Photo Credit: rocky-ormiston
Categories: Illinois, Energy