RAPID CITY, S.D. – U.S. Sen. John Thune welcomed President Donald Trump’s renewed commitment to year-round E15 fuel sales on Tuesday, calling the move a potential economic victory for producers across the state.
During a trip to the Midwest, Trump reiterated his support for expanding the sale of the ethanol blend, emphasizing that his administration is working with congressional leaders to finalize a deal. The president mentioned he has been in contact with Thune regarding the legislation.
Thune, a longtime proponent of renewable fuels, said he spoke with Trump regarding the issue early Tuesday.
“During my time in Congress, I have been a steadfast advocate for the year-round sale of E15,” Thune said. “I’ve spoken to the president on numerous occasions, including as recently as this morning, about its importance to places like South Dakota, so I appreciate hearing him reiterate his support for it today during his trip to the Midwest.”
The proposed changes would allow E15, a gasoline blend containing 15% ethanol, to be sold during summer months, a practice currently restricted across the country to federal regulations. Thune noted that lifting these restrictions would provide a significant boost to the agriculture sector.
“Implementation of year-round E15 would be a huge win for South Dakota producers and would boost the agriculture economy and rural communities across the nation,” Thune said.
Trump indicated that he is trusting Thune and other congressional leaders to send a bill to his desk, which he promised to sign immediately. Thune expressed confidence in the ongoing negotiations.
“I remain committed to continue working with my colleagues in Congress to get a year-round E15 proposal across the finish line and to the president’s desk,” Thune said.
