Ricketts Statement on EPA’s E-15 Announcement

February 22, 2024

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE), a longtime champion of Nebraska biofuels, released the following statement in response to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) final rule approving a request from Midwest governors to allow the year-round sale of gasoline with higher blends of ethanol in 2025:

“Today’s announcement is a welcome step toward year-round availability of E-15. Higher blend ethanol saves consumers money at the pump, it makes us more energy independent, and it creates good-paying jobs right here in Nebraska. The next step is for Congress to pass legislation allowing for the permanent sale of E-15 nationwide.”

BACKGROUND

As Governor of Nebraska, Ricketts made similar requests of the EPA to allow the year-round sale of E-15. As Senator, Ricketts has co-sponsored the Consumer Fuel and Retailer Choice Act, which would make permanent its year-round sale. Ricketts also frequently touts the benefits of ethanol and other renewable fuels as a member of the Committee on Environment and Public Works, which oversees the EPA. In addition, Ricketts introduced the bipartisan Flex Fuel Fairness Act with Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) to level the playing field for vehicles running on higher blends of ethanol.