ORLANDO, FLORIDA (RFD NEWS) — House lawmakers missed their self-imposed late-February deadline to introduce legislation allowing permanent, nationwide year-round E15 sales, drawing renewed pressure from ethanol groups meeting this week in Orlando. Industry leaders say the delay adds uncertainty for farmers counting on stronger corn demand and lower fuel costs.
The E15 Rural Domestic Energy Council had pledged action by February 25, but no bill has been filed. Renewable Fuels Association President and CEO Geoff Cooper and Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor both urged Congress to move quickly, arguing that bipartisan, supply-chain-supported legislation is already in place.
For producers, year-round E15 remains central to expanding domestic ethanol use. Federal limits currently restrict E15 sales during the summer in many markets. Ethanol advocates contend permanent access would increase corn grind, reduce fuel prices, and strengthen rural income during a period of tight margins.
The urgency comes as the industry reported record performance in 2025, producing 16.4 billion gallons of ethanol, exporting 2.2 billion gallons, and supporting more than 300,000 jobs. California also approved E15, though implementation awaits regulatory certification.
Looking ahead, industry leaders are watching the EPA’s renewable volume proposals and the implementation of the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit for further growth opportunities.
Shaun Haney joined RFD News to discuss the potential impact of the Trump-Xi summit uncertainty, ongoing agricultural trade talks, and why geopolitical developments could carry important implications for farmers and global commodity markets.
