The National Corn Growers Association urged EPA officials to implement a petition from Midwest governors that would remove barriers to higher blends of ethanol and avoid further delay.
EPA’s public hearing reviewed the agency’s recent proposal to implement a plan from eight Midwest governors to require lower-volatility gasoline so drivers in those states continue to have year-round access to fuel with 15 percent ethanol, often marketed as Unleaded 88.
EPA has proposed delaying implementation of the governors’ plan until 2024.
NCGA President Tom Haag took issue with the delays to date and urged EPA to avoid further delays in implementation. He also highlighted the emissions reduction benefits of E15 and the current cost savings of up to 20 cents or more per gallon when drivers choose E15.
Haag says, “we now strongly urge EPA to implement this rule with an effective date of April 28, 2024 -- as proposed --without further delay.”