Major Win for Corn Producers and Congress Allies
The approval of this provision is a major victory for corn producers and their allies in Congress from both parties. Ethanol, which is derived from corn, has its supporters who claim it boosts U.S. production and helps lower gas prices. Sen. Deb Fischer, a Nebraska Republican who sponsored a bill to make the blend available all year, emphasized that this move is part of the GOP agenda to "unleash American energy." She stated, "My bill puts an end to years of patchwork regulations and uncertainty. Year-round, nationwide E15 will now be a reality. This legislation also delivers on the mandate we received in November to unleash American energy. Not only will my bill lower gas prices and give consumers more choices, but it will also create new opportunities for American producers who are especially hurting right now from lower prices."House Energy and Commerce ranking Democrat Frank Pallone of New Jersey also applauded the inclusion of the measure. He said it would assist in reducing gas prices and strengthening U.S. energy production. Pallone stated in a statement, "By allowing for a higher blend of ethanol in our gasoline, Americans can rely more on homegrown biofuels that save drivers money at the pump and help insulate Americans from dramatic global price fluctuations."
Benefits for Midwestern Farmers and Ranchers
U.S. Rep. Don Bacon, R-Neb., one of the few farm-state House Republicans advocating for the E15 provision, expressed his satisfaction. He said, "Year around E-15 is the most important policy we can embrace for Midwestern farmers and ranchers. I was glad to advocate for this on the Agriculture Committee and to our Speaker, and glad to see it embraced. I also know our entire Nebraska delegation was pulling for this. It is a team win."This policy holds great significance for the agricultural sector in the Midwest. It provides a much-needed boost to the livelihoods of farmers and ranchers who rely on corn production. The availability of E15 throughout the year ensures a stable market for their crops and offers them more opportunities for growth and profitability.
Lowering Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Prices
At a U.S. Senate Environment and Public Works Committee hearing last year, Sen. Debbie Stabenow, a Michigan Democrat who chairs the Senate Agriculture Committee, and Sen. Pete Ricketts of Nebraska promoted E15 availability. They saw it as a way to lower greenhouse gas emissions and reduce prices. The EPA issued a waiver in May 2022 to allow the blend to be available nationwide throughout the year, as President Joe Biden's administration sought to address the issue of high gas prices.This move not only benefits the environment by reducing greenhouse gas emissions but also provides immediate relief to consumers at the gas pump. With lower gas prices, families and businesses can save money and have more financial flexibility.
The stopgap measure, known as a continuing resolution, will keep the government funded at current levels through mid-March. It includes a few additional provisions, such as funding to rebuild the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Maryland. The House and Senate are expected to pass the catch-all measure before members leave for their holiday break on Friday. Biden is expected to sign the bill. Nebraska Examiner reporter Aaron Sanderford and D.C. Bureau senior reporter Jennifer Shutt contributed to this report.North Dakota Monitor is part of the States Newsroom, a network of similar news bureaus supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity.