Lawmakers have eliminated a provision for year-round nationwide sales of E15 gasoline from a House funding bill expected to advance today, replacing it with plans for a new "Rural Domestic Energy Council" to study future renewable fuels proposals.
The Renewable Fuels Association expressed frustration over Congress's failure to adopt what it called a "simple technical fix" that would have made the 15% ethanol blend available to consumers throughout the year.
"We are extremely disappointed," said RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper. "Allowing year-round E15 would have provided a lifeline to farmers facing the worst economic crisis in almost 50 years, while also helping American families struggling with higher energy bills."
Cooper noted a compromise deal already existed with broad support from ethanol producers, farmers, oil refiners, and retailers, but lawmakers "appear to be letting it slip away."
The RFA criticized the creation of a new council as merely "kicking the can down the road" when immediate solutions are needed for the agricultural sector's economic challenges.
"Farmers need real solutions right now, not more foot-dragging and more debate," Cooper said.
Despite the setback, the association pledged to continue pushing for the legislation "as soon as possible."
