FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 31, 2019

Contact: Hannah Packman, 202.554.1600
hpackman@nfudc.org

WASHINGTON– The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today issued a final rule that will permit year-round sale of gasoline blended with 15 percent ethanol, also known as E15. The rule’s finalization comes just in time to allow for summertime use of E15 this year, but does not extend to higher blends of ethanol, such as E30. 

Because mid-level blends of ethanol both offer significant environmental benefits as well as play an important role in bolstering farmers’ incomes by creating new markets, National Farmers Union (NFU) has long advocated for policies that facilitate their use. In a statement issued today, NFU President Roger Johnson reiterated the organization’s earlier support for the rule and urged EPA to further expand biofuel use. 

“While family farmers contend with slumping commodity prices and an overwhelming corn glut, it is of the utmost importance that we continue to implement policies that address both problems. Biofuels, which establish new uses and markets for agricultural products, are an obvious solution, and we are pleased that EPA is recognizing their potential by allowing for year-round sales of E15. 

“However, E15 is just one step in lifting farm prices and using up excess corn supply. Now EPA should take full advantage of all the benefits higher-level ethanol blends offer by expanding the use of E30 fuel, which is consistent with the statute and this country’s energy policy. Not only would this support family farmers, but it would also create new jobs and economic growth in rural communities, lower fuel prices for American drivers, improve air quality, and decrease greenhouse gas emissions. To achieve this, we strongly urge policymakers to remove regulatory barriers and to invest in research, development, and infrastructure that encourage the production and distribution of American-grown biofuels.”

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To download an audio file of Roger Johnson’s quote, visit our website at nfu.org/audio.

About NFU
National Farmers Union advocates on behalf of nearly 200,000 American farm families and their communities. We envision a world in which farm families and their communities are respected, valued, and enjoy economic prosperity and social justice.

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