Senate Farm Bill Draft Set to Boost Year-Round E15 Sales Nationwide

Senate negotiators are set to add a provision allowing year-round sales of E15 gasoline nationwide to an updated farm bill draft. This move marks a shift from a previous proposal that omitted the measure, despite strong support from corn growers and the ethanol industry.

The revised text would grant permanent approval for E15, a gasoline blend containing 15% ethanol. Supporters argue this would provide certainty for fuel retailers, boost corn demand, and eliminate the need for annual emergency waivers from the Environmental Protection Agency.

While the House passed standalone legislation authorizing year-round E15 sales in May, the proposal has stalled in the Senate. Refining interests have opposed the measure due to concerns over compliance costs and fuel distribution requirements, according to Reuters.