Ernst to EPA Nominee Regan: Defend the RFS, Uphold New WOTUS Rule

WASHINGTON—At a Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee hearing today, U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) pressed President Biden’s nominee to lead the Environmental Protection Agency, Michael Regan, on his commitment to defending the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) and his view on the Trump Administration’s Navigable Waters Protection Rule that replaced the unpopular Obama-era Waters of the U.S. (WOTUS) rule.

 

Click here or on the image above to watch Senator Ernst’s remarks.

 

Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS)

Ernst noted that, if confirmed, Regan will have a number of pending items on his desk related to the RFS—including decisions on small refinery exemptions, an RVO for 2021, pending cellulosic biofuel petitions, and a request by governors to waive the program because of COVID-19. 

 

Ernst asked Regan to explain how he will ensure that these important matters – which have an outsized impact on states like Iowa – are handled in a way that provides further economic opportunity for Iowans. Ernst also pressed Regan to commit to a strong and growing role for corn ethanol in the RFS, including for 2023 and beyond when the statutory tables have expired.

 

WOTUS

Ernst also highlighted the widespread support from Iowa’s farmers and agriculture community for the Trump Administration’s clear and reasonable Navigable Waters Protection Rule.