DES MOINES, IOWA (April 20, 2021) — Governor Kim Reynolds has implored the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), to follow through on expanding consumer-access to E15. These comments were submitted during the EPA’s public comment period. Her message can be viewed here.
“The State of Iowa leads the nation in the production of ethanol, biodiesel, and the corn and soybean feedstock that is used to make it,” Gov Reynolds stated in her public comments. “The renewable-fuels industry accounts for more than $5.3 billion — or about three percent — of Iowa’s GDP, and supports more than 48,000 Iowa jobs. Iowa is a national leader in renewable energy, and I am pleased to offer comments on the proposed rule for E15 fuel dispenser labeling and compatibility with underground storage-tanks.”
In a letter directed to EPA Administrator Michael Regan, Gov Reynolds specifically highlighted changes needed to E15 pump labels, underground fuel infrastructure, and she endorsed the agency’s proposal to require future infrastructure to be E100-compatible.
“Quickly expanding consumer access to E15 is vital to Iowa’s economy, consumer’s pocketbooks, and our nation’s clean air. I appreciate the steps the Agency has proposed in this draft rule, and believe there is even more the Agency could do to increase access to and the use of E15,” Gov Reynolds continued.
Gov Reynolds is currently pushing legislation to create a robust biofuel standard that expands consumer-access to higher blends of ethanol and biodiesel. She will continue to advocate for Iowa's renewable-fuel industry during this legislative session while simultaneously working to hold the EPA's feet to the fire in support of E15.
