The U.S. House voted Wednesday to allow E-15 gasoline to be sold year-round nationwide. The bill passed 218-203.
Federal rules have limited the fuel containing 15% ethanol during the summer in some areas, leading the EPA to issue temporary waivers in recent years.
North Dakota Farmers Union President Matt Perdue said in a statement that the House vote gives farmers, fuel retailers and ethanol producers the certainty they have been seeking.
The Dakota Spirit plant in Spiritwood is one of several refineries in eastern North Dakota.
The bill also changes how small refinery exemptions are handled under the Renewable Fuel Standard. Supporters say those exemptions have reduced demand for ethanol and other renewable fuels.
North Dakota Congresswoman Julie Fedorchak co-sponsored the legislation that was first crafted in the Congressional Biofuels Caucus she’s a member of.
The measure is not law yet. It still needs Senate approval and President Trump’s signature.
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