WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, today released the following statement after the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a proposal to grant eight governors’ request that would allow for gasoline-ethanol blends containing 15 percent ethanol (E15) to be sold during summer months. The proposal, if finalized, would not take effect until 2024.

“I appreciate the EPA trying to move the ball forward on access to E15 during the summer months. We all know E15 is great for lowering costs at the pump and strengthening our energy security.

“But this proposal, while well-intended, still leaves the country with a patchwork of regulations that prevents the nation’s driving public from enjoying the full benefits of biofuels. It also fails to address this upcoming summer driving season.

“The best solution here is congressional action.

“I have a bipartisan bill that would create a permanent, nation-wide fix. I look forward to reintroducing it this Congress so we can make true year-round E15 a reality.”

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