US Senate Farm Bill Includes Year-Round E15 Gasoline Blends

The US Senate's inclusion of year-round E15 gasoline blends in its latest farm bill has raised hopes for a significant boost to the ethanol industry. Currently, a lower E10 blend is available nationwide throughout the year, but summertime sales of higher ethanol blends require a federal waiver due to air quality concerns.

Supporters argue that making E15 available year-round would strengthen the farm economy and increase energy independence. Ethanol is primarily made from corn, which has been a key crop for many farmers in states like South Dakota.