Members of the U.S. House of Representatives, including several from Illinois, have introduced an amendment to the proposed farm bill that would provide consumers with permanent, year-round access to E15 fuel.
The farm bill, which could be voted on by the full House as early as this week, has drawn significant attention, with more than 300 amendments submitted for consideration.
The E15 amendment would allow continuous, year-round sales of gasoline blended with 15% ethanol, a move supporters say would expand consumer choice and support the biofuels industry.
In addition to expanding E15 availability, the proposal would make changes to how small refinery exemption requests are handled under the Renewable Fuel Standard. The amendment would also give the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency authority to grant waivers if a refinery is facing economic collapse or transitioning to renewable fuel production.
Illinois lawmakers sponsoring the amendment include Mike Bost, Eric Sorensen, Nikki Budzinski, Mary Miller, Darin LaHood, and Robin Kelly.
Supporters of the measure argue it would provide greater stability for ethanol producers while offering drivers a more affordable fuel option, while critics have raised concerns about environmental impacts and regulatory changes.