Inflation, tariffs, and economic uncertainty continue to dominate conversations in Washington, but corn growers across the country see an opportunity amid the challenges.
Advocates at both state and national levels are making a strong push for year-round access to higher ethanol blends, arguing that such a move would lower fuel costs, support rural economies, and enhance U.S. energy security.
“Ethanol saves drivers money at the pump, is good for the environment, and is an economic engine for farmers and rural America,” National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) director of public policy Matt Ziegler said in an editorial. “It also is homegrown and provides the United States with energy security. Ethanol has something for everyone.”
Despite these benefits, federal policy continues to restrict the availability of fuel containing 15% ethanol, commonly known as E15 or Unleaded 88, during the summer months. For several years, NCGA has worked with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to secure waivers allowing E15 sales to continue throughout the warmer months. However, these waivers offer only temporary relief, leaving farmers and consumers without long-term certainty.
“As the nation struggles with inflation and higher gas prices, we need a long-term and permanent fix,” Ziegler said.
To address this, corn growers and their allies in Congress have reintroduced the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act. If passed, the bill would ensure year-round access to E15 and eliminate the outdated restrictions currently in place.
“State and national corn grower leaders have been relentless in working to get this legislation across the finish line,” Ziegler said in the editorial. “We came close to a win in December when legislation designed to keep the government funded through March included language eliminating the outdated E15 policy. At the eleventh hour, the language was removed, much to our disappointment.”
That setback did not deter the industry’s advocates. This year, the NCGA sent letters to congressional leadership with nearly 9,000 signatures from farmers and supporters urging action. The association also partnered with lawmakers at a Capitol Hill press conference to rally support for the bill.
“As some in Washington talk about what they’re against, we are in a unique position to talk about what we are for,” Ziegler noted. “And luckily, we have some heavy hitters on our side, including President Donald J. Trump, who has expressed his support for eliminating barriers to ethanol.”
However, the path forward remains complicated by political distractions and a sharply divided Congress. With narrow Republican control in the House, Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) has kept government funding legislation tightly focused, avoiding additional provisions like the E15 measure to maintain party unity.
“If inflation, tariffs, and economic concerns are helping us make our case, they also are causing a lot of distractions, impeding our ability to attract the attention of policymakers and the media,” Ziegler said.
Despite these hurdles, Ziegler remained optimistic.
“I still think there are many opportunities over the days ahead to get this legislation passed and signed by the president,” he said.
Ziegler urged the corn industry and its growers to take an active role in the effort.
“If you’re not already a member, consider joining your state corn grower group and sign up for the National Corn Growers Association’s advocacy alerts, so you can make your voice heard on this and other issues,” Ziegler said.
With rising fuel costs and economic pressure mounting, Ziegler said corn growers believe ethanol is a commonsense solution.
“While America runs on ethanol, public policy wins are fueled by people like you and the thousands of corn growers across the country,” Ziegler said.
