State Rep. Blaine Wilhour (R-Beecher City) is applauding the recent agreement by President Donald Trump to promote biofuels by committing to continue to promote and expand domestic ethanol and biodiesel production, supporting our Nation’s farmers and providing greater energy security.
“A big thank you to President Trump for once again demonstrating his commitment to long term sustainability for the American Farmer,” said Rep. Wilhour. “As an Illinois farmer, the news of this important agreement on the Renewable Fuel Standard and especially the commitment to the 15 billion gallon biofuels baseline could not have come at a more critical time for our industry and the rural economy as a whole.”
Last week, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Andrew Wheeler and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Sonny Perdue announced that President Donald J. Trump successfully negotiated an agreement on the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS).
Under this agreement, the EPA will propose and request public comment on expanding biofuel requirements to ensure that more than 15 billion gallons of conventional ethanol be blended into the nation’s fuel supply beginning in 2020, and that the volume obligation for biomass-based diesel is met. This will include accounting for relief expected to be provided for small refineries.
Building on the President’s earlier decision to allow year-round sales of E15, EPA will initiate a rulemaking process to streamline labeling and remove other barriers to the sale of E15. USDA will seek opportunities through the budget process to consider infrastructure projects to facilitate higher biofuel blends.
“I am pleased to know that the Trump Administration will continue to work to address ethanol and biodiesel trade issues, and thank the President for all he has done to enact tax and regulatory policies that have helped make American energy dominant in the world,” added Wilhour.