Next week’s debate on a five-year farm bill in the House could provide the first test for a new compromise to lift seasonal restrictions on higher-ethanol fuel.
A deal worked out by the so-called Rural Domestic Energy Council — and proposed as an amendment to the farm legislation — would allow sales of E15 fuel in the summer, while giving small petroleum refiners an off-ramp from biofuel blending requirements.
The idea, supported by the council members, including Reps. Stephanie Bice of Oklahoma and Randy Feenstra of Iowa, builds on an earlier framework that fizzled amid opposition from some refining companies. Rep. Michelle Fischbach (R-Minn.) is the main sponsor.
Lobbying groups for both the ethanol and petroleum industries urged lawmakers to support the amendment, although it would have to overcome a jurisdictional conflict between the Agriculture Committee — where the farm bill originated — and the Energy and Commerce Committee, which oversees the renewable fuel standard.
