U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-IA) and 48 bipartisan lawmakers are urging the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to swiftly finalize its proposed biofuel blending requirements under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) “Set 2” rule — a move they say would strengthen farm economies, stabilize energy prices, and boost American-made fuels.
“A final, timely Set 2 rule that includes strong RVOs [Renewable Volume Obligations] and necessary reallocation represents the most meaningful commitment to farmers and rural communities, home-grown American energy, and affordability for consumers,” Rep. Feenstra said. “I will continue to work with [EPA] Administrator Zeldin and President Trump to support home-grown Iowa biofuels and promote energy independence.”
At a time when farm families and rural communities face tough markets and economic uncertainty, the lawmakers wrote in an Oct. 30 letter sent to Zeldin that they appreciate the EPA’s recognition of the vital role American biofuels and agriculture play in lowering fuel prices and advancing American energy dominance.
“These volumes matter — not just to biofuel producers, but to the farmers who grow the corn, soybeans, and other feedstocks that power this economy, and to every American who enjoys lower prices at the pump because of biofuels,” wrote Rep. Feenstra and his colleagues. “A strong RVO means stronger commodity prices, more stable markets, and greater opportunity for rural America.”
As the EPA considers its supplemental proposal, the members urged the EPA to fully reallocate 100 percent of the waived gallons for compliance years 2023–2025.
“Without full restoration the benefits of the original proposal won’t reach the farm gate or lower prices at the pump,” they wrote. “Farmers and rural businesses will ultimately bear the brunt of weakened demand and lower prices.”
Congress created the RFS to boost biofuel use, the economy, and American energy security, so it’s critical that the EPA follow the directive outlined in the RFS to issue timely and reflective RVOs, they added.
“Every day the rule remains unfinished means uncertainty for producers and missed opportunities for rural communities,” wrote Rep. Feenstra and the lawmakers. “Promptly finalizing the rule will allow these benefits to take hold sooner — bringing stability, investment, and growth to the places that need it most.”