ICGA Reacts to Congress’s E15 Proposal

BLOOMINGTON, Ill. – While the U.S. House considers a funding bill later today that does not include year-round access to E15, a fuel with 15 percent corn ethanol, Illinois corn farmers are left frustrated and concerned. Illinois farmers are weathering one of the worst economic downturns in recent memory and are depending on Congress to step up and support expanded markets for farmers. The solution being considered by Congress right now does not rise to the challenge facing farmers and rural communities in Illinois and across the country. 

Maroa farmer and IL Corn Growers Association President Mark Bunselmeyer released the following statement:

“It is tough to understand why Congress can’t remove an artificial barrier to increased corn demand that costs taxpayers nothing but would help family farmers and rural communities. This decision should not be difficult; fix the policy that blocks ethanol access to the marketplace and gives farmers and rural communities a fighting chance. We have been advocating for year-round E15 since the U.S. EPA approved the fuel in 2011. Kicking the can down the road yet again and loading the decision with unnecessary bureaucracy is not what Illinois corn farmers need.”

BACKGROUND:

• The artificial barrier is Reid Vapor Pressure (RVP), which is a number that quantifies the volatility of the petroleum and ethanol blended fuel. E10 is more volatile than E15, and E10 has enjoyed an RVP waiver since the mid-1990s. Thus, fixing the RVP barrier is not an environmental concern. 
• The first Trump administration attempted to fix this policy barrier to E15, but the courts ruled that it wasn’t in the administration’s jurisdiction. Congress is the only entity that can fix this problem.
• Congress asked parties to work together to determine a solution to open market access for E15. We have offered a solution with agreement from the American Petroleum Institute (API) and still Congress will not act, due to political opposition from a portion of the oil industry known as “small refiners." 
• Fuel retailers can decide to sell E15 or not. Year-round E15 policy simply opens the marketplace and is not a mandate.
• Passage of the agreed upon year-round E15 language has potential to create market demand for corn costing taxpayer nothing which could reduce future economic assistance programs that have federal budget implications. Farmers prefer market driven income for their families and their farms.

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About the IL Corn Growers Association

IL Corn Growers Association is a state-based organization that represents the interests of corn farmers in Illinois, maintaining a high profile on issues in Washington, DC, and Springfield, IL. Through grassroots advocacy, ICGA creates a future for Illinois farmers in which they can operate freely, responsibly, and successfully. In order to fulfill this mission, the organization conducts governmental affairs activities at all levels, market development projects, and educational and member service programs. For further information regarding their work and involvement, visit their website www.ilcorn.org.