Last week, Reps. Bill Flores (R-Texas), Peter Welch (D-Vermont), Bob Goodlatte (R-Virginia) and Jim Costa (D-California) introduced a bill to cap ethanol blends to no more than 9.7 percent by volume. Paul Jeschke, a farmer from Mazon, Illinois, and chair of the Ethanol Committee of the National Corn Growers Association, called the bill “a step backward for both farmers and consumers.”
“Americans want cleaner air, affordable choices at the gas pump, and a strong economy that fosters investment in new technology and improves our energy independence,” said Jeschke.
“Meanwhile, American corn farmers are struggling, with prices below the cost of production and the largest carryover stock in two decades. The Renewable Fuel Standard was created to promoted American renewable energy while creating a steady market for corn. This bill would undercut the RFS and negatively impact corn farmers, and with it, the entire farm economy.
Members of Congress will be heading back to their districts soon for Memorial Day recess. Jeschke urged farmers and community members to use the opportunity to talk to their elected officials about the bill.
“When you see your Senators and Representatives, remind them that the Renewable Fuel Standard works. It had has taken American renewable energy forward, and this is not the time to back down. Tell your elected officials to stand up for clean air, a strong economy, and energy independence. Urge them to oppose Rep. Flores’ anti-ethanol bill.”