Washington: U S lawmakers are planning to set up a task force dedicated to study viability of sale of E15 gasoline throughout the year in the country, reports Reuters.
The decision was taken after the government failed to pass the legislation in a funding bill this week.
The move has drawn sharp criticism from farm groups and ethanol supporters in the Midwest, who said creating a task force instead of passing a law is a setback for farmers already dealing with low prices, uncertain global trade, and unclear biofuel policies.
Farm organisations are seeking year-round sales of E15 fuel, which contains more ethanol than the widely sold E10 gasoline. Supporters say this would raise demand for corn, the main crop used to produce ethanol. Oil refiners have opposed higher ethanol blending in the past, citing higher costs. Currently, E15 sales are restricted during the summer months because of air quality rules.
As part of a compromise, lawmakers plan to set up an “E15 Rural Domestic Energy Council” to study issues including E15 sales, U.S. refining capacity, and biofuel blending credits. The council is expected to submit its recommendations by mid-February, according to a draft proposal reviewed by Reuters. A vote on the measure was expected as early as Thursday afternoon.
Renewable Fuels Association President and Chief Executive Officer Geoff Cooper said the decision to delay action would increase uncertainty across rural areas, adding that farmers need clear policies rather than further reviews.
Democratic Representative Nikki Budzinski of Illinois also criticised the move, saying there had been a bipartisan agreement with industry support to allow year-round E15 sales, but lawmakers dropped it in favour of setting up a task force.
