Ernst Praises Trump Prioritizing Biofuel Producers on Day One

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, released the following statement after President Trump’s day one action ordering the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to consider issuing emergency fuel waivers to allow the year-round sale of E15.

“President Trump is already fighting for our Iowa farmers and biofuel producers and listening to our calls for E15 year-round,” Ernst said. “While President Biden drug his feet and repeatedly waited until the last minute to provide certainty for our farmers and producers, this clear contrast shows the new administration will prioritize our rural communities. For years, I’ve been relentless in my effort to unleash E15 year-round and look forward to working with the Trump administration to secure permanent, nationwide access to this cleaner, cheaper choice at the pump.”

Background:

Throughout her time in Congress, Ernst has been a strong advocate for homegrown, Iowa biofuels. Since 2015, she has led legislation to permanently allow for the nationwide sale of year-round E15, which is most recently displayed in her Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act.

In March 2024, Ernst and the entire Iowa delegation urged President Biden to immediately issue an emergency waiver, which would make E15 available across the country and utilize the strength of American agriculture to provide energy independence. In April 2024, Ernst and a bipartisan group of senators once again called on President Biden to permit the summertime sale of E15 fuel and finally secured year-round, nationwide E15 sales for the upcoming summer 2024 driving season.

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