MCGA advocates for year-round E15 sales in EPA hearing
Minnesota Corn Growers Association (MCGA) President Brian Thalmann provided testimony last week at a hearing for a proposed rule by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) allowing year-round sales of E15. On behalf of MCGA, Thalmann advocated for removing the outdated barrier to E15 by June 1 while avoiding additional reforms that could weigh down E15 sales.
A corn and soybean farmer from Plato, Thalmann shared in his testimony the success of E15 in Minnesota, as demonstrated by the exponential increase in ethanol-blended fuel sales. He also emphasized the importance of E15 in driving corn demand for farmers who continue to navigate a depressed farm economy.
In addition to being a vital market for corn farmers, ethanol-blended fuels provide consumers a cleaner-burning option at the pump that is less expensive than standard gasoline, Thalmann testified.
Thalmann also noted that any reform to the Renewable Identification Number (RIN) market included as part of the proposed rule could negate any benefits from summertime access to E15. In his testimony, he advocated that any RIN market changes included in the rule should only further the goals of the Renewable Fuel Standard. Held in Ypsilanti, Mich., Friday’s EPA hearing was only part of the comment process. MCGA is asking corn farmers statewide to also provide comment on the rule before the comment period closes on April 29. Make your voice heard and bring year-round E15 sales to consumers by clicking here.
