President Donald Trump is set to include a provision in a supplemental funding bill on Wednesday that would permit year-round sales of gasoline blended with 15% ethanol, according to a U.S. official familiar with the plan.
The move marks the first time Trump’s White House has formally pushed to make the policy a reality, despite the president’s longstanding support for expanded ethanol fuel sales. It also signals that the administration is prepared to push back against U.S. oil refiners, who have opposed the measure, citing concerns about higher costs and complications in fuel distribution.
Currently, gasoline containing 10% ethanol can be sold throughout the entire year without restriction. However, the 15% blend — commonly referred to as E15 — faces summer sales restrictions because the fuel evaporates more easily in hot weather, which can contribute to the formation of smog.
Under existing federal regulations, fuel retailers are generally required to switch to more expensive fuel formulations during summer months unless the government steps in with emergency waivers to allow otherwise.
