Trump EPA to ease restrictions on summer ethanol-blend sales as gas prices soar

Source: Nebraska Examiner

By: Jacob Fischler - March 25, 2026 5:06 pm

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency will allow gas stations to sell a blended fuel containing 15% ethanol into the summer season in an effort to lower gas prices, Administrator Lee Zeldin said Wednesday.

The blend, known as E15, is usually barred in many Midwest states over the summer to reduce smog, though the federal government has routinely in recent years issued waivers to allow summer sales. The move, which ethanol producers applauded, could prevent a spike in prices at the pump during the war with Iran that has scrambled oil markets.

“EPA is working with our federal partners to reduce unnecessary costs and uncertainty and ensure that gas prices remain affordable for all Americans through the summer,” Zeldin said in a statement. “This emergency action will provide American families with relief by increasing fuel supply and consumer choice.”

Bipartisan officials in corn-producing states had sought the waiver, and continue to push for year-round availability of the product. Ethanol is manufactured from corn and other plant materials.


Tassels emerge from corn in central Iowa on Aug. 4, 2025. (Photo by Cami Koons/Iowa Capital Dispatch)

Read more: https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2026/03/25/repub/trump-epa-to-ease-restrictions-on-summer-ethanol-blend-sales-as-gas-prices-soar/