Oil pump jack is seen in front of displayed U.S. flag in this illustration taken, October 8, 2023.
On Monday, the American Petroleum Institute (API), a trade group, advocated for a uniform national policy on higher-ethanol gasoline blends. This follows the announcement from President Donald Trump’s administration on Friday, February 21, 2025, to proceed with increased sales of such blends in specific Midwestern states. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) confirmed it would maintain an implementation date of April 28 for a plan requested by eight Midwest governors. This plan permits year-round sales of gasoline with 15% ethanol, known as E15, in those states.
The EPA’s decision allows both E15 and the more common E10 blends to be available during summer months, a period when current regulations often limit E15 sales. This adjustment, initially proposed under former President Joe Biden, responds to requests from governors in the Midwest. The affected states include Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin noted that the agency is open to granting one-year extensions for states needing more time to comply, with Ohio already pursuing this option.
Biofuel producers have consistently supported broader E15 sales but favor a nationwide approach over a regional one. The API shares this view, highlighting concerns that a divided market could cause supply issues in certain areas. Will Hupman, API’s vice president of downstream policy, stated: "A nationwide solution would prevent a patchwork of state-by-state policies while ensuring consumers have access to the fuels they depend on every day." The group emphasized to Reuters that the EPA’s Midwest-focused decision underscores the need for Congressional action to establish a consistent national framework.
Separately, a group of U.S. senators from both parties reintroduced legislation this month to authorize E15 sales across the country. However, not all industry voices agree with the EPA’s move. The American Fuel and Petrochemical Manufacturers (AFPM) and the Fueling American Jobs Coalition expressed opposition. Geoff Moody, AFPM’s senior vice president of government relations and policy, said: "We call on the affected governors to protect consumers in their states from likely increased gasoline costs and supply disruptions by requesting more time for the market to prepare."
The EPA’s decision marks an early signal of the Trump administration’s stance on biofuel policies. During Trump’s first term, tensions between oil refiners and biofuel producers led to debates over federal mandates and refinery regulations, influencing EPA policy considerations. The current action reflects ongoing efforts to balance these interests while addressing regional fuel needs.
