Tag: ethanol blends

An attempt to include in the House passed Farm Bill a provision to allow year-round U.S. sales of higher ethanol fuel blends, known as E15, became a major sticking point throughout consideration of the bill. The provision was removed after concerns arose that the biofuel measure might not have enough support amid oil refinery opposition and cost concerns and could therefore scuttle the Farm bill. Instead, a vote on E15 in a freestanding measure is now set for May 13.

Efforts to increase year-round use of ethanol blends from the standard 10% up to at least 15% continue despite having not met the deadline to produce a compromise. An attempt to include the provision in the FY 2026 funding measure was slowed amid opposition from small oil refiners and environmentalists. House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Majority John Thune established a Council between all of the affected groups with a deadline of February 25 to bring forth a consensus measure. While discussions in that group continue, an attempt was made to include a provision in the House farm bill but was rejected due to lack of jurisdiction.