EPA Approves Nationwide Year-Round E15 Sale; Iowa Leaders Applaud Move
Oskaloosa, Iowa — Ahead of the busy summer driving season, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced it will allow the sale of E15 fuel nationwide through an emergency waiver. Iowa officials are praising the decision, calling it a win for farmers, consumers, and American energy production.
U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) welcomed the news, highlighting the benefits of cleaner, cheaper fuel options at the pump and stronger domestic energy output. “Today’s announcement means consumers will have more affordable choices at the pump, hardworking Iowa farmers will have stronger corn markets, and our nation will bolster domestic energy production,” Ernst said. She credited President Trump’s administration for following through on commitments to rural America and pledged to continue working for permanent, nationwide access to E15.
Senator Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) also expressed strong support, thanking President Trump and EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin on social media. Grassley wrote, “Thx to Pres Trump & EPA Admin Zeldin for keeping their promise to support ethanol. E15 will b available nationwide this summertime. E15 provides a BIG domestic market for corn farmers and keeps fuel costs low. Another example of promises made, promises kept frm this admin.”
Adding to the chorus of praise, Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig issued a statement applauding the emergency waiver. “Today’s E15 announcement by the Trump Administration is a win for consumers across the U.S. and farmers here in Iowa,” Naig said. “Iowa drivers saved $38.5 million in 2024 by choosing E15 over E10, and now drivers across the country can also take advantage of similar cost-savings at the pump.” Naig emphasized that the decision helps move the U.S. toward greater energy independence and called on Congress to pass legislation to make year-round E15 sales permanent.
Naig also thanked Secretary of Energy Linda Rollins and EPA Administrator Zeldin for their leadership, noting that he had previously urged both the EPA and Congress to act on this issue. He stressed that permanent access to E15 would benefit consumers, strengthen corn markets, and create additional jobs in Iowa’s ethanol sector.
The emergency waiver will allow gas stations nationwide to sell E15, a fuel blend containing 15% ethanol, during the summer months — a move typically restricted under federal air quality rules. Supporters argue that E15 not only lowers costs at the pump but also reduces emissions and supports America’s agricultural economy — a vital sector for Iowa and Mahaska County.
