WASHINGTON, D.C.—Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuel trade association, applauded President Donald Trump, Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin, and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Brooke Rollins for helping to deliver the largest renewable volume obligations (RVOs) in the nation’s history. Growth Energy also welcomed news that EPA would account for a number of small refinery exemptions (SREs) by reallocating 70% of those volumes.

“With this rulemaking, EPA and the administration are reinforcing their unwavering support for American-made biofuels and sending a strong signal about the continued role biofuels like ethanol will play in delivering American energy dominance and greater prosperity to the heartland,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “We commend President Trump, EPA Administrator Zeldin, and USDA Secretary Rollins for working together to finalize this historic, growth-oriented proposal, which opens the market for more than 15 billion gallons of conventional biofuel in 2026 and 2027.

“USDA also deserves our industry’s thanks for its advocacy on behalf of American farmers—the agency worked tirelessly to ensure that the final RVOs reflected the President’s agenda for unleashing American energy and restoring prosperity to rural America. With so many farm families struggling to make ends meet, we must take every opportunity to build reliable, domestic markets for American agriculture.

“Furthermore, we applaud EPA for making the decision to reallocate 70% of all gallons lost to 2023-2025 SREs. This provides clarity and predictability across the liquid fuel supply chain, while guaranteeing that the new markets promised to American farmers and biofuel producers as part of the RVOs are not destroyed by costly exemptions.

“We are grateful to President Trump and his administration for its steadfast support for homegrown biofuels, and for setting a new high watermark for American ethanol. We look forward to continuing our work with EPA and Congressional champions as we continue to find ways to strengthen domestic energy security and open new market opportunities for U.S. farmers and rural communities.”

BACKGROUND

Under the RFS, EPA sets the number of gallons of renewable fuels (such as biofuels) that must be blended into the nation’s total fuel supply each year. Those renewable volume obligations (RVOs) apply to fuel producers (petroleum refiners) and importers, otherwise known as “obligated parties.”  Each obligated party is required to blend a certain percentage of renewable fuels into the transportation fuel they produce or import to meet the nationwide RVO. The law also allows EPA to grant exemptions from RFS blending requirements to certain refiners (SREs) in rare circumstances when a refiner demonstrates “disproportionate economic hardship” in its efforts to comply with the RFS.

On June 13, 2025, EPA proposed RVOs for 2026-2027, proposing that refiners must blend at least 15 billion gallons of conventional biofuels (i.e., ethanol) into the nation’s fuel blend for each plan year. The RVO proposal—also called the Set 2—also included requirements to blend more than one billion gallons of cellulosic biofuel, more than seven billion gallons of biomass-based diesel, and more than nine billion gallons of advanced biofuel for each plan year. Altogether, EPA’s proposal would require the blending of more than 24 billion gallons of renewable fuel each year, making it the largest RVO proposal in the program’s history.

On August 22, 2025, EPA released its decisions on 175 pending SRE petitions, covering compliance years 2016-2024. In all, EPA granted a total of 140 petitions: 63 full exemptions and 77 partial (50%) exemptions.

At the time, EPA also announced that it would release a supplemental proposal to its proposed Set 2 RVO to reallocate exempt SRE gallons from 2023-2025 compliance years to the 2026 and 2027 compliance years covered by Set 2. Although it had not yet issued decisions on 2025 SRE petitions, EPA estimated upwards of 2.1 billion 2023-2025 RINs were potentially subject to reallocation. Under this approach, refiners would be required to make up for lost gallons from those years, ensuring that SREs don’t compromise renewable fuel demand.

EPA released the supplemental proposal on SRE reallocation on September 16, 2025. It indicated that the agency is considering accounting for “volumes representing complete (100 percent) reallocation and 50 percent reallocation for SREs granted in full or in part for 2023 and 2024, as well as those projected to be granted for 2025, as part of the ongoing RFS rulemaking.” Growth Energy provided substantive comment in response to EPA’s proposal.

In November 2025, EPA also issued decisions on 16 SRE petitions for the 2021 through 2024 RVO compliance years. EPA granted 2 full exemptions and 14 partial (50%) exemptions and denied 2 petitions. The November 2025 exemptions totaled 740 million RINs, 510 million of which were for the 2023 and 2024 RVO compliance years.

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WASHINGTON, D.C.—Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuel trade association, will welcome a contingent of farmers and biofuel producers to Washington, D.C. this week to attend the White House’s National Ag Week celebration on March 27.  

“Agriculture is the bedrock of our economy, and Growth Energy is proud to celebrate the farmers who keep America growing,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “Ag Week is also an important opportunity to remind lawmakers that America’s farmers are ready to fuel more savings at the pump with low-cost, American-made biofuels. To put our crop surplus to work, Congress must act swiftly to deliver on President Trump’s call for year-round access to E15.” 

“The President understands that farmers want reliable markets—not handouts,” said Mark Schmidt, chairman of the board at Glacial Lakes Energy. “With year-round E15, we can tap into surging demand for lower-cost fuel, create rural jobs, and boost America’s energy security.” 

“Iowa leads the nation in biofuel production,” said Mark Wigans, CORN LP president and a fourth-generation Iowa farmer. “But for too long, outdated regulations on E15 have created needless uncertainty—affecting planting decisions, local investment and ultimately the value of every bushel we grow. It’s time for Congress deliver action for American farmers and motorists.”  

After reaching an impasse in January, House leaders agreed to establish an E15 Rural Domestic Energy Council, tasked with striking a deal no later than February 15 and sending legislation to the House floor no later than February 25, 2026. While lawmakers report progress, no legislation has been introduced. According to Growth Energy, the entire supply chain—including farmers, biofuel producers, retailers, and the vast majority of refiners—has united behind a fix, but the legislation is being held hostage by a tiny handful of mid-sized refiners who are demanding unrelated handouts from the EPA.

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A CLEANER BURNING FUEL

Ethanol is the cleanest, most affordable high-octane fuel on the market. It provides a superior octane boost without the carcinogens associated with other fuel additives.

MORE OCTANE FOR MORE POWER

High-octane fuels like ethanol enhance engine performance by delivering more horsepower and speed. Most vehicles require a minimum octane rating of 87. Ethanol, with an octane rating of 113, helps meet that in modern cars. Ethanol isa cleaner, renewable, and cost-effective alternative to toxic chemicals like lead and MTBE. As a result, ethanol is now blended into 98 percent of motor fuels in the U.S., providing a safe and efficient boost to fuel performance.

MORE OCTANE FOR GREATER EFFICIENCY

Turbocharging forces more fuel and air into a smaller volume, increasing pressure but potentially causing low-octane fuels to ignite prematurely, reducing efficiency and damaging the engine. High-octane fuels, like ethanol, are essential for high-compression, turbocharged, or supercharged engines, ensuring proper ignition timing and delivering more power. Future U.S. fuel efficiency standards may require higher-compression engines, necessitating higher-octane fuels, which ethanol can provide at a lower cost.

Download the Engine Performance Fact Sheet

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WASHINGTON, D.C.—Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuel trade association, applauded the Trump administration’s decision to grant emergency waivers allowing uninterrupted, nationwide sales of lower-cost E15, a fuel blend made with 15% ethanol that can be used in 96% of cars on the road today. The decision to issue an E15 summer waiver will ensure that consumers will maintain access to a fuel that saves drivers up to 30 cents per gallon.

“We applaud President Trump, EPA Administrator Zeldin, and our Midwestern governors for their support, and for taking swift action to ensure that retailers, refiners, and biofuel producers have the certainty they need to protect consumer access to savings at the pump,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “With the conflict in the Middle East and its impact on the global oil marketplace, it’s more important than ever to shield U.S. consumers from volatility with lower-cost, American-made fuel.”

“Now, to bring E15 to new markets and more consumers, it’s vital that Congress act quickly on President Trump’s call for nationwide legislation allowing uninterrupted sales of lower-cost E15. It’s a common-sense solution that doesn’t cost taxpayers a dime. Not only will permanent legislation unlock greater fuel savings across the U.S.—it will deliver an immediate, badly-needed boost to the rural economy.”

For more information about the E15 summer waiver and emergency waivers, read Growth Energy’s FAQ here.

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With high inflation and volatile gas prices, American drivers are increasingly relying on the fuel savings offered by E15 (UNL88), a fuel containing 15 percent American ethanol. Compared to standard 10 percent blends (E10), E15 saved American drivers an average savings of up to 30¢ per gallon — all while increasing U.S. energy security and supporting economic growth across rural America.

Unfortunately, these cost savings could vanish from many markets as early as May 1 of this year due to outdated federal restrictions on summer sales of higher ethanol blends.

For the last seven years, American drivers have uninterrupted access to E15 year-round based on actions taken by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). In January 2025, President Trump issued an executive order (EO) declaring a national emergency over energy, which, in Section 2(b) of the EO, orders EPA to “consider issuing emergency fuel waivers to allow the year-round sale of E15 gasoline to meet any projected temporary shortfalls in the supply of gasoline across the Nation.”

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WASHINGTON, D.C.—Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuel trade association, expressed renewed urgency after Congress missed another deadline to approve a permanent, legislative fix offering consumers year-round access to E15. After reaching an impasse in January, House leaders agreed to establish an E15 Rural Domestic Energy Council, tasked with striking a deal no later than February 15 and sending legislation to the House floor no later than February 25, 2026. Despite reports of progress, no legislation has been introduced.

“This is an urgent priority for rural America, and we’re grateful for the hard work by our champions on the council to keep this process moving forward,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “But we need to get year-round E15 to the President’s desk in time to reignite the struggling farm economy and guarantee real savings at the pump this summer. We urge Speaker Johnson and his team to stand behind President Trump’s promise to quickly deliver year-round access to lower-cost, American-made E15.

“Stakeholders already have consensus legislation with clear support across the entire supply chain – including farmers, biofuel producers, retailers, and the vast majority of refiners. Now is the time to pull out all the stops to make certain the legislation has the momentum needed to speed through the House and Senate.”

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WASHINGTON, D.C.—Growth Energy chairman, Tom Willis, will attend President Trump’s 2026 State of the Union address as a guest of U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas). Willis is a southwest Kansas farmer, as well as the CEO and President of Conestoga Energy Holdings, LLC, (CEH) — a leading ethanol producer based in Liberal, Kansas.

“President Trump has made it clear that unleashing American-made energy and holding down fuel costs is a top priority for this administration,” said Chairman Willis. “E15 is helping do just that by contributing to the lowest gas prices Americans have seen in four years.

“To keep those savings flowing this summer, we need Congress to deliver on President Trump’s call for year-round access to E15, and we’re grateful to have rural champions like Senator Marshall leading the charge to get it done. This simple change will deliver relief at the pump, while opening new markets for farm families that are struggling just to stay afloat.

“I look forward to attending this evening’s speech and proudly representing American biofuel producers and farmers working to expand economic opportunities across the heartland.”

In announcing his guest, Senator Marshall emphasized his commitment to Kansas farmers and producers.

“As we look ahead to the State of the Union, I’m proud to have Tom Willis representing Kansas agriculture and American energy leadership,” said Senator Marshall. “Tom’s work turning sustainable, Kansas-grown crops into clean-burning fuel showcases the strength and innovation of our farmers and biofuel producers. Expanding ethanol markets supports rural communities, boosts our economy, and helps reduce our dependence on foreign energy.”

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WASHINGTON, D.C.—Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuel trade association, applauded a new Agreement on Reciprocal Trade with Indonesia. According to United States Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, the agreement will open “commercially meaningful opportunities for American farmers and manufacturers.” As part of the deal, Indonesia has agreed to lift its 30 percent tariff on U.S. ethanol exports, remove measures preventing the import of U.S. ethanol, and adopt transportation fuels mixed with up to five percent ethanol (E5) by 2028 and up to 10 percent ethanol (E10) by 2030. Longer-term, Indonesia aims to incorporate 20 percent ethanol (E20) into its fuel mix. 

“On the heels of a similar agreement with Guatemala, the new trade framework with Indonesia represents a renewed hope for American agriculture,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “Indonesia is the world’s fourth most populous country, and its adoption of 10 percent ethanol blends nationwide could open a 900 million-gallon market to American producers and farmers. We commend President Trump, Ambassador Greer, and Secretary Rollins for their ongoing commitment to unleash American energy and tear down unfair barriers to exports from rural America. There is a growing global appetite for low-carbon, low-cost biofuels, and America is well-positioned to dominate that market.”

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WASHINGTON, D.C.—Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuel trade association, applauded today’s release of final 2025 trade data showing that U.S. exports of U.S. ethanol eclipsed the record set in 2024. In total, the U.S. exported 2.18 billion gallons of ethanol valued at $4.8 billion in 2025, a 13 percent volume increase from 2024 levels. Despite an overall agricultural trade deficit, U.S. ethanol experienced a trade surplus of 2.12 billion gallons and $4.55 billion.

“American biofuel exports are powering growth in rural communities, supporting new manufacturing jobs, and advancing U.S. energy leadership on the global stage,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor.  “There’s no question that the broader farm economy is struggling, but the latest data shows that biofuels can continue to be a source of strength for American agriculture. Each new trade agreement opens valuable markets for America’s surplus grain, and combined with strong domestic markets for E15, biofuels are positioned to reignite growth across the heartland. We applaud United States Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, Secretary Rollins and President Trump for prioritizing U.S. ethanol in the administration’s new trade frameworks, and we look forward to fueling another banner year for American exports in 2026.”

Read the last data from the USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service here.

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WASHINGTON, D.C.— Growth Energy, the National Corn Growers Association, and the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) released a joint statement regarding the lack of progress toward a permanent, legislative fix offering consumers year-round access to E15. After reaching an impasse in January, House leaders agreed to establish an E15 Rural Domestic Energy Council, which was charged with reaching a deal on consensus legislation no later than February 15, 2026. No such deal has been announced.

“Year-round, nationwide E15 is an urgent priority for rural America, and it can’t wait. House leaders already have bipartisan, consensus legislation that has broad support from the overwhelming majority of biofuels, agriculture, fuel retail, and oil refining interests. The solution is on the table, and we urge council members to refocus their attention on proposals that already have widespread support. Year-round E15 will deliver real savings for hard-working families and open a reliable market for U.S. farmers struggling to stay afloat. We cannot allow a tiny handful of mid-sized refiners to take year-round E15 hostage while demanding outlandish handouts, just to line their pockets at the expense of everyone else,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor, RFA President & CEO Geoff Cooper, and Ohio farmer and National Corn Growers Association President Jed Bower.

“Our rural champions in Congress — backed by President Trump — understand that voters want to see more American-made energy, lower prices at the pump, and a stronger farm economy. House and Senate leaders should listen,” they added.

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Scottsdale, AZ — Today, at the 17^th annual Executive Leadership Conference (ELC), Growth Energy honored U.S. Senator Joni Ernst of Iowa with the distinguished America’s Fuel Award —an award recognizing individuals who go above and beyond in championing renewable fuels. Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor commended Senator Ernst for her leadership and expressed gratitude for her commitment to advancing policies that support a bright future for American bioethanol.

“Senator Ernst has been one of the most effective biofuels champions in Congress, leading the charge to secure year-round E15, bolster the Renewable Fuel Standard, and enact programs that drive new investment in rural communities,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “Always fighting for Iowa’s hardworking farmers, she has worked hard to expand opportunities for American agriculture, at home and abroad. She has been a champion in the truest sense of the word, and there is no doubt we will miss her voice in the Senate next year. We thank Senator Ernst for her unwavering commitment to homegrown fuels.”

Previous winners of the award include Dan Sanders, CEO of Front Range Energy, Iowa Senator Chuck Grassley, Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen, former Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack, and Raymond E. Defenbaugh, CEO and chairman of Big River Resources LLC in West Burlington, Iowa — along with many others who have made significant contributions to the U.S. bioethanol industry.

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Growth Energy honors member excellence across the biofuels sector each year through its prestigious TOBI Awards, recognizing outstanding leadership in political advocacy, technical innovation, corporate and association leadership, communications, and global market development. These awards spotlight the individuals and organizations driving progress and advancing the industry’s impact nationwide and around the globe. Growth Energy is proud to celebrate the 2026 TOBI Award winners at its Executive Leadership Conference, set against the striking desert landscape of Scottsdale, Arizona.

“This year’s winners embody the vision, ingenuity, and determination propelling the biofuels sector forward,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “Their leadership is not only strengthening rural economies but also advancing America’s energy security and reinforcing the critical role of bioethanol in our nation’s energy future.”

This year’s award for Membership was presented to Tom Solon. Solon has been a champion of biofuels and a leader across the industry, whether he’s in Washington, D.C. or his home state of Nebraska. Chief Executive Officer of Mid America Agri Products/Wheatland (MAAPW), he plays a critical role in advancing the goals of the industry and strengthening the collective voice and impact of Growth Energy.

The TOBI award for Advocacy was presented to Trevor Reuschel. A leader on Capitol Hill, in agriculture, and the biofuels industry, Reuschel has played a critical role in industry-wide negotiations and federal advocacy. As Vice President of Federal Government Relations for ADM his expertise has helped expand the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit, bolster the Renewable Fuel Standard, and advance progress on year-round E15.

The TOBI award for Public Affairs was presented to Bill Couser. Couser has been an effective messenger for the industry, conveying the impact of bioethanol on rural America. As President of Couser Cattle Company, President of the Iowa Cattlemen’s Foundation, and Vice President and Secretary of Lincolnway Energy, Couser brings the industry’s gains to life, earning support and winning over new allies along the way.

The 2026 TOBI award for Global Market Development was presented to Doug Berven. Berven has led the U.S. Grains and Bioproducts Council’s Ethanol Action Team on trade missions across the globe, using his mastery of the bioethanol and agriculture story to communicate the industry’s contributions to the global economy. As Vice President of Corporate Affairs at POET, Berven continues to be one of the industry’s strongest global advocates.

The TOBI award for Technical & Regulatory was presented to Dr. Bob McCormick. Dr. McCormick’s research has amassed over 16,000 citations and has been instrumental in advancing new ethanol markets, from mid-level blends to aviation and marine fuel. As a senior research fellow and platform leader for fuels and combustion research at the National Laboratory of the Rockies, Dr. McCormick’s expertise is critical to accelerating bioethanol adoption across all applications.

And finally, the Get Biofuel TOBI award was presented to Jen Franzoni. As the Public Relations Manager – Technology & Innovation at John Deere, Franzoni has been a formidable partner in executing a multi-faceted media effort to showcase renewable fuel’s impact on the ag economy, including during the NASCAR Iowa Corn 350 race weekend. Franzoni’s continued leadership drives a new level of innovation and creativity within the industry.

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SCOTTSDALE, Ariz.—Today, Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuel trade association, welcomed industry leaders and innovators to The Phoenician in Scottsdale, Arizona, for the organization’s 17th annual Executive Leadership Conference (ELC). ELC gathers Growth Energy members from across the country to engage in executive-level educational programming, strategic planning, and networking within the biofuels industry. 

Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor kicked off the conference with a keynote address focused on the growing demand for American biofuels in the U.S. and around the world. 

“The entire country is focused on energy — and we stand apart for the unique benefits that we alone can inject into America’s future,” said Skor. 

One of the industry’s top policy priorities, according to Skor, remains securing permanent, year-round access to E15 — a more affordable fuel blend made with 15% American ethanol that can be used in 96% of cars on the road today. In her remarks, Skor emphasized that consumer demand for E15 continues to grow nationwide and that Congress must deliver a lasting solution. 

“We are not going to stop pushing until our lawmakers make law,” said Skor. 

Skor also highlighted the importance of a strong Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS), expanding access to global markets, and policies that reward innovation and support growth across rural America. 

In addition to the keynote address, this year’s ELC features 19 executive-level educational panels and sessions with speakers from across the renewable fuels, retail, public, and agricultural sectors. The event is ongoing in Scottsdale, Arizona. Follow along on social media using the hashtag #ELC2026. 

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WASHINGTON, D.C. — Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuel trade association, today called on lawmakers to act swiftly on E15 following another disappointing farm income forecast from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

“Rural America is hurting,” said Emily Skor, CEO of Growth Energy. “Corn growers were already expecting a net loss of $180 per acre, and this latest USDA report confirms that the broader farm income isn’t faring much better. Our growers don’t want to depend on federal aid for their livelihood — they want strong, stable markets for their crops. That’s exactly what E15 delivers — an immediate source of demand for up to 2.4 billion additional bushels of corn — at no cost to taxpayers. Best of all, it means lower fuel prices for American drivers. Congress simply can’t afford to wait any longer to deliver a permanent fix for E15.”

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WASHINGTON, D.C. — Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuel trade association, today welcomed proposed rulemaking from the U.S. Treasury and U.S. Internal Revenue Service (IRS) on the Section 45Z clean fuel production tax credit. The credit was enhanced and extended by the One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB) last summer, and Treasury’s proposed rule outlines eligibility requirements for farmers and biofuel producers seeking to expand production of American biofuels.

“American energy dominance runs through America’s heartland,” said Emily Skor, CEO of Growth Energy. “A strong, well-implemented 45Z credit can unleash lower-cost fuels, rebuild farm income, and open long-term market opportunities for American manufacturing. We applaud the Department of Treasury and the Trump administration for working to advance this rulemaking to chart a clear path for billions of dollars in new investments in U.S. energy leadership.

“The proposed rule provides much-needed clarity around key issues, including how credits will be calculated and who is eligible. We are encouraged that Treasury’s latest draft reflects Growth Energy’s comments regarding the need to offer greater freedom and flexibility to producers around ‘qualified sale’, production of undenatured ethanol for export, and implementation of provisions from the One, Big, Beautiful Bill (OBBB).

“However, some key questions still remain unresolved. Before the rule is finalized, we urge regulators to swiftly release an updated 45Z-CF GREET model that appropriately reflects the removal of indirect land use change and includes the use of farm practices to count toward carbon reduction goals.

“President Trump knows that American farmers and biofuel producers are ready to put more American-made fuel into the marketplace, hold down energy costs, and secure American energy leadership. Treasury’s proposal is an important step to help to make that vision a reality.”

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WASHINGTON, D.C. — Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuel trade association, applauded a new United States–Guatemala Agreement on Reciprocal Trade. According to United States Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, the agreement will solidify new markets for U.S. exports and strengthen strategic economic ties in the Western Hemisphere. As part of the deal, Guatemala has agreed to transition to E10 ethanol blends for on-road use, and it shall endeavor to purchase at least 50 million gallons of ethanol from the United States annually.

“Every new market is another opportunity to close the gap between supply and demand for our farmers and fuel America’s energy leadership,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “We applaud Ambassador Greer and the Trump administration for working to ensure that U.S. biofuel exports remain a bright spot for trade — one that supports working-class jobs and strengthens American manufacturing. Exports of 50 million gallons to Guatemala would translate to a market for 17.2 million bushels of U.S. corn, and that number will only grow as more of our trading partners add more lower-cost ethanol to their fuel supplies.”

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WASHINGTON, D.C. — A broad coalition of trade groups representing ethanol producers, petroleum refiners, farmers, and retailers sent a letter to the co-chairs of the new E15 Rural Domestic Energy Council calling for swift action to deliver lower prices for consumers and a stable, efficient fuels marketplace. The letter outlines recommendations for consensus legislation to permit year-round, nationwide sales of E15 and improve long-term policy certainty across the transportation fuel sector.

“[T]he time window for arriving at a recommended legislative solution is short, with the council expected to submit legislative solutions to the full House by February 15th, only 16 days from today. We applaud this expedited time frame as fuel producers and retailers are making decisions now about product offerings over the next year, farmers are making planting decisions, and a legislative fix is needed as soon as possible to provide fuel producers and retailers with a predictable policy framework as we approach the summer driving season,” the organizations wrote.

To “achieve a solution in short order,” the groups urged lawmakers to build upon H.R. 1346, the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act, that was amended and offered for consideration by Representative Adrian Smith (R-Neb.) last week before the Rules Committee. These include fixing outdated regulations on summer sales of E15 and limiting the marketplace distortions caused by Small Refiner Exemptions (SRE) under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS).

“H.R. 1346 has broad support from the overwhelming majority of biofuels, agriculture, fuel retail, and oil refining interests, and is the most comprehensive pathway to a legislative solution,” the organizations wrote.

Signatories on the letter included the Agriculture Retailers Association, American Farm Bureau Federation, American Petroleum Institute, Corn Refiners Association, Growth Energy, National Association of Convenience Stores, National Association of State Departments of Agriculture, NATSO, National Corn Growers Association, National Sorghum Producers, Renewable Fuels Association, and SIGMA.

Full text of the letter can be found at GrowthEnergy.org.

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WASHINGTON, D.C. — Growth Energy today applauded President Trump on his remarks in Iowa, where he reiterated his support for E15, highlighting its vital role in supporting farmers, expanding U.S. exports, and delivering affordable fuel choices for consumers. Most notably, the President reaffirmed his promise to secure year-round access to E15, telling the crowd that House and Senate leadership are “very close to getting it done,” and pledging to sign the bill “without delay.”

“The President has championed E15 from his first term, on the campaign trail, and upon his return to the White House,” said Emily Skor, Growth Energy CEO. “His remarks today underscore his steadfast support, and we look forward to swift action in Congress and the President signing this when it comes to his desk.”

The White House quickly shared a video clip promoting the President’s remarks, available here.

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WASHINGTON, D.C.—Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuel trade association, issued the following statement after it was announced that a legislative fix for year-round E15 was dropped from the January government funding bill, and that Congress will instead form a “rural energy council” to formulate another compromise bill with petroleum interests, and with expectations for a vote in February.

“Congress picked foreign refiners over American farmers and drivers today. What a travesty,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “E15 delivers cost savings for consumers and generates long-term demand for American agriculture. These have been the facts during the twelve-year-long debate over the simple act of allowing consumers the choice to buy a better value fuel year-round. Failure to act will now lead to farmers missing out on a critical market during the worst farm crisis in 40 years. Consumers will also miss out on access to more affordable fuel choices. Instead of supporting farmers and affordability, Congress appears to have prioritized the demands of a few well-capitalized foreign refiners that plead poverty with lawmakers while boasting financial success with investors.

“This council must deliver a solution for year-round E15. It’s imperative that leaders in Congress focus their energies on getting this over the finish line in an expedited timeline.

“We especially want to thank our congressional champions who have fought to make this issue a top priority for Congress. While the creation of a council to work on E15 legislation falls short of the immediate action we need, Growth Energy intends to fully participate in this process and ensure our champions in Congress have the support they need to deliver a victory for rural America.

“If lawmakers want to show they can still deliver practical solutions—solutions that lower costs, strengthen domestic energy production, and meet Americans where they are—passing year-round E15 is the place to start.” 

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In a letter sent today to congressional leadership, a coalition of more than 70 biofuel groups and agricultural organizations called for the immediate passage of legislation to allow year-round nationwide sales of the American-made E15 fuel blend, containing 15 percent ethanol. Year-round E15 would benefit drivers with savings of 10 to 30 cents per gallon and improve markets for America’s farmers.

“The U.S. Department of Agriculture projects a record 16.8-billion-bushel corn harvest in 2025—up roughly 13 percent from 2024,” the groups wrote. “While this demonstrates the strength and productivity of America’s farmers, it also intensifies pressure on corn prices and farm incomes. Expanding E15 access is one of the most immediate and practical ways to address this imbalance. When fully scaled, year-round, nationwide E15 is poised to create new domestic demand for billions of bushels of corn and sorghum, help stabilize markets, support farmers, and deliver consumer savings at the pump.”

The letter was led by Growth Energy, the American Farm Bureau Federation, the National Corn Growers Association, and the Renewable Fuels Association.

In recent years, the organizations noted, E15 availability during the summer driving season has depended on temporary emergency waivers. While these annual actions provide short-term relief, they are not a sustainable or reliable solution. Year-to-year uncertainty discourages investment in fuel infrastructure, confuses consumers, and undermines confidence among retailers and refiners.

“With a record corn crop filling bins across America, farmers cannot afford another season of uncertainty and negative margins. Markets need consistency and predictability, which requires permanent legislative action by Congress. We respectfully urge you to act this year to pass year-round E15 legislation,” the groups wrote.

Read the full letter here.

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