Ernst Statement on Final RFS RVO Rule

WASHINGTON – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) finalized a rule that sets the renewable fuel volumes under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) program for 2019 and biomass-based diesel for 2020. U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA), a member of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works, issued the following statement.

“The release of the final Renewable Volume Blending Obligations (RVO) for 2019 provides farmers and ethanol producers much needed transparency and certainty.  However, it is disappointing that the gallons lost through the unprecedented handing out of small refinery waivers was not addressed.  After meeting with Acting Administrator Andrew Wheeler on Wednesday, I’m hopeful that we’re done with former Administrator Pruitt’s mishandling of the RFS and waiver process.  Now that this rule is finalized, the EPA needs to move forward in fulfilling President Trump’s promise of E-15 year-round,” said Senator Ernst.

Background:

The EPA proposed 2019 volume requirements for conventional, advanced and cellulosic biofuels, as well as the 2020 requirement for biomass-based diesel, on June 26, 2018, and the final rule was issued today.