House passes bill for year-round E15 gasoline sales by 218 to 203

The U.S. House of Representatives passed legislation on Wednesday to allow the year-round nationwide sale of gasoline blended with 15% ethanol, a measure long sought by agricultural and biofuel interests. The bill, known as the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act, was approved by a vote of 218 to 203.

The legislation would remove seasonal restrictions on E15 sales, which are currently limited in summer months in many parts of the country due to air quality regulations under the Clean Air Act. Both Democratic and Republican administrations have issued temporary waivers in recent years, but supporters have pushed for a permanent legislative fix.

The vote revealed sharp divisions within both parties. The bill passed with support from 122 Republicans and 95 Democrats, while opposition came from 90 Republicans and 113 Democrats. Republican leadership was split, with House Speaker Mike Johnson and Majority Leader Steve Scalise voting against the measure, while Majority Whip Tom Emmer supported it.

Supporters, primarily from Midwestern states, argued the bill would provide economic relief and market stability. They said year-round E15 would support corn farmers facing...