Iowa, Nebraska Sue EPA to End Federal E10 Waiver

Iowa and Nebraska attorneys general have filed lawsuits against the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to end a federal waiver for E10 to be sold in the summer. The 10% ethanol blend dominates the fuel market and, if eliminated, would force fuel providers to provide E15 year-round. The move could be a shot in the arm for the ethanol industry, supporting corn farmers in both of the top corn-producing states.

However, EPA cites increased fuel costs and diminished supplies as a reason not to make the change. Currently, more than 98% of gasoline sold in the U.S. is E10, according to the Department of Energy. Iowa Renewable Fuels Executive Director Monte Shaw says the EPA is already more than a year late in finalizing the E15 decision. Between the delay and reluctance on the E10 change, many Midwest states have banded together to urge for more ethanol consumption.

Read more on the lawsuit here.