Thune: Year-Round E15 Sales Hinge on Concessions to Small Oil Refiners

US Senate Majority Leader John Thune said that passing legislation to allow year-round sale of higher ethanol-blended gasoline, known as E15, would require making concessions to small oil refiners.

Thune mentioned that the bill needs support from senators representing states with small oil refineries, such as Montana, Wyoming, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Tennessee. He stated that 'at some point, we've got to get this done' and that it's a matter of getting enough votes.

The issue centers on the Renewable Fuel Standard, which requires oil refiners to blend a minimum amount of renewable fuels into their fuel supply or pay for compliance credits. Small refineries can obtain exemptions if they show complying with the standard would cause 'disproportionate economic hardship.'

Thune's comments come as the Senate version of the farm bill is being considered, and year-round E15 language is included in the bill.