Nearly 9,000 corn growers and advocates from 47 states have signed a letter urging congressional leaders to approve legislation allowing year-round sales of fuel blended with 15% ethanol, known as E15.
The letter, sent by the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) to House and Senate leadership, highlights the economic and energy benefits of standardizing E15 availability.
“A legislative solution for consumers to access year-round E15 comes at no cost yet would provide critical support to our nation’s energy sector, overdue relief to American families, and provide necessary economic security to rural communities,” the letter stated.
E15 is currently restricted during summer months due to outdated federal regulations. Advocates argue that lifting this barrier would expand consumer access to a more affordable fuel option while increasing demand for corn at a time when growers are facing economic challenges.
Corn producers emphasized that farms across the country are struggling. Projections indicate that 2025 will be the third consecutive year of losses for corn growers, with returns expected to drop to the lowest levels since 2000. The letter stresses that year-round E15 sales would provide a critical market-based solution.
“Standardizing year-round E15 will result in an increase in corn demand of about 2.3 billion bushels per year,” the letter stated. “Considering that about one-third of corn produced in the U.S. is used for ethanol production, this demand creation will result in an impressive improvement in profitability for operations across the nation – and rural communities will reap the benefits.”
Ethanol is a key component of the U.S. fuel supply, adding approximately 15 billion gallons annually. Nearly every gallon of gasoline sold in the country contains a 10% ethanol blend, and higher blends like E15 provide additional consumer savings. Drivers who use E15 consistently save an average of 25 cents per gallon.
The push for a permanent fix gained momentum in mid-February when lawmakers introduced the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act. The bill aims to remove the seasonal restriction on E15 and has garnered strong support from corn growers and fuel retailers.
Congress came close to approving a legislative fix at the end of 2024 but fell short. Growers remain hopeful that the 119th Congress will move the policy forward.
“We are confident that the 119th Congress can find a path forward,” the letter stated. “The undersigned corn growers of America’s Crop greatly encourage Congress to take another look at unlocking year-round E15.”
What’s Next for E15?
Supporters argue that expanding E15 access aligns with economic, energy, and agricultural priorities. As legislative discussions continue, growers, fuel retailers, and industry advocates will push for swift congressional action to ensure consumers can access E15 year-round.
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