The House of Representatives is expected to vote as soon as May 13 on a bill that would permanently authorize nationwide summer E15 sales, according to a May 12 announcement.
The proposed legislation, called the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act of 2025, aims to allow year-round use of E15 fuel across the country. Supporters say this measure could lower fuel prices and help farmers facing economic challenges. Currently, summer E15 remains illegal in many parts of the United States due to concerns about increased air pollution during warmer months. The Environmental Protection Agency has repeatedly issued temporary waivers for E15 sales in lieu of permanent legislation.
The bipartisan bill is sponsored by Representatives Nikki Budzinski, Democrat from Illinois, and Adrian Smith, Republican from Nebraska. Previous attempts to make summer E15 legal year-round have failed after being removed from larger legislative packages due to political disagreements. At a Capitol Hill press conference hosted by the National Corn Growers Association on May 12, Budzinski said: “We’ve been close here before. In fact, it feels like every other year we get right up to the goal line, and every year politics delays, or dysfunction gets in the way. Today, we are here to say enough is enough. Enough of the excuses, enough kicking this can down the road. The time for permanent nationwide year-round E15 is now.”
Smith highlighted that most vehicles currently on U.S roads—about 97%—can use E15 fuel and stated that no retailers would be forced to sell it under this proposal. He also mentioned efforts within the bill directing EPA officials to update labeling requirements and streamline equipment regulations: “This debate comes down to a simple question: Do we want more affordable fuel, stronger energy independence and expanded markets for American agriculture? Or do we want to continue allowing uncertainty and politics to stand in the way?” Smith asked at the event.
Farm groups such as the American Farm Bureau Federation and National Farmers Union have publicly supported expanding access to summer E15 sales alongside former President Donald Trump and Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins.
According to the official website, Farm Progress supports agricultural communities with market updates and educational programs; functions as part of Informa PLC’s Informa Markets Division; distributes content through regional brands; delivers news analysis tools; organizes events highlighting farming innovations; and reaches farmers via print publications and digital platforms.
