Des Moines, Iowa (RI) — A vote may be held Wednesday in the U.S. House on a proposal that would override EPA rules and allow E15 to be sold at all U.S. gas stations year-round.
Monte Shaw, executive director of the Iowa Renewable Fuels Association, says the move would provide a financial boost for farmers who raise corn.
According to the EPA, motorists can buy E15 at more than 3,000 gas stations in 31 states. The agency says E15 offers better profit margins for retailers, and Shaw says consumers save money because E15 is normally cheaper than regular gasoline.
The EPA approved E15 for use in vehicles built after July 1st, 2001, but federal regulations have prohibited its sale during summer months due to smog concerns. The agency has now waived that limit for the fifth consecutive summer.
A federal policy allowing year-round E15 was included in a House budget bill in January and in the Farm Bill last month, but it was removed from both measures at the last minute.
Shaw’s association represents Iowa’s 42 ethanol plants. He made his comments during a recent appearance on “Iowa Press” on Iowa PBS.
KIWA Staff Photo
