New legislation removes barriers to wider E15 availability statewide
California has taken an important step toward expanding access to E15 fuel after state lawmakers unanimously passed the E15 Clean-Up Act. The legislation removes remaining barriers that have limited the availability of ethanol-blended fuel across the state.
The bill received strong bipartisan support, passing both the California Assembly and Senate without opposition. Industry groups believe the measure will help drivers gain access to a lower-cost fuel option while supporting environmental goals.
“The passage of this bill means Californians will finally be able to enjoy savings at the pump with a lower-cost fuel blend that’s also better for the environment,” said RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper.
He added, “We thank principal authors Sens. Bob Archuletta and Suzette Martinez Valladares, and Assemblymember David Alvarez, as well as the entire bipartisan California Problem Solvers Caucus for their leadership and commitment to reducing gas prices for California families. We are also grateful to Gov. Gavin Newsom for his ongoing strong support of E15.”
The new law follows earlier legislation that allowed E15 sales. It clarifies requirements for fuel retailers by permitting the use of existing vapor recovery equipment when manufacturers provide compatibility documentation to state agencies. This change is expected to simplify fuel station upgrades and speed the rollout of E15.
Regulatory progress is also moving forward. California's Environmental Policy Council recently approved the final multimedia analysis for E15. The California Air Resources Board is expected to consider formal approval of the related regulations later this month.
Supporters of E15 point to both economic and environmental benefits. Research conducted in 2024 found that wider E15 use could save California drivers billions of dollars annually. Additional federal analysis suggests motorists in states where E15 is already available have recently enjoyed notable savings per gallon compared to conventional gasoline.
The measure is viewed as an important milestone for renewable fuel adoption in one of the largest transportation markets in North America. Increased availability of E15 could provide consumers with more fueling options while helping reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Industry organizations continue working with fuel retailers, distributors, and stakeholders to prepare for implementation. Educational workshops and outreach programs are planned to help businesses understand equipment requirements and operational considerations as E15 becomes more widely available.
The legislation is expected to support both consumer savings and renewable fuel growth, creating new opportunities for cleaner transportation fuels throughout California.
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