The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced Friday it would use existing authority to prevent drivers from losing access to lower-cost and lower-emission E15, a higher ethanol blend often marketed as Unleaded 88.
Missouri Corn Growers Association President Clint Stephens of Advance welcomed the decision. He said, “We applaud today’s announcement from EPA to keep the door open for E15 throughout the summer driving season. With OPEC’s recent decision to cut oil production by more than one million barrels per day, gas prices throughout the country have once again jumped. The average cost for a gallon of regular gas in Missouri is $3.35, more than 30 cents higher than a month ago. Keeping E15 at the pump during the popular summer months will help relieve the ongoing fuel supply pressures.”