On May 13, something miraculous and rare in modern legislative politics occurred. A standalone bill passed the U.S. House with a vote of 218-203. During that vote, 122 Republicans, 95 Democrats and one Independent voted to pass the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act (H.R. 1346), which would allow for a 15% ethanol-gasoline blend to be sold year-round.
This win is not only a step in the right direction for farmers, but it also provides a template for policymakers and other advocacy groups for bipartisanship in today’s polarized environment.
This is a niche issue to many, but to the farmers, ethanol producers, fuel retailers and the Midwest members of Congress who represent them, year-round E15 was more than a decade-long struggle. What it means in a tough economy for farmers and consumers is an opportunity to increase demand for corn and ethanol while also saving American drivers money at the gas pump.
Corn grower leaders have steadily built support for E15 legislation in Congress over the years. The legislation passed the House once before, as part of the Lower Food and Fuels Cost Act in 2022. In 2024, it came close to being tucked into the year-end spending packages before getting knocked out for one reason or another.
By 2026, corn farmers were running out of patience and intensifying pressure on policymakers. Meanwhile, House members from both parties, many of whom are facing close races, are battling for control of their chamber in upcoming midterm elections. These dynamics don’t typically lend themselves to progress, but E15 champions were undeterred.
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