The U.S. House of Representatives cleared legislation to allow year-round sales of E15 ethanol-blended gasoline nationwide in a 218-203 vote on May 13, 2026.
The measure, H.R. 1346, known as the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act, drew support from 122 Republicans, 95 Democrats, and one independent. Ninety Republicans and 113 Democrats voted against it. Lawmakers decoupled the bill from the Farm Bill to secure a standalone floor vote after months of negotiations and temporary regulatory relief.
Rep. Julie Fedorchak, R-ND and co-chair of the Congressional Biofuels Caucus, welcomed the outcome. "North Dakota farmers have been asking for this for years, and today the House delivered," she said.
Rep. Michelle Fischbach, R-MN, also backed the bill. "I've always supported year-round E15 and I'm proud to vote YES on the House floor later today to support Minnesota's farmers and producers," Fischbach stated before the tally.
The bill removes seasonal barriers that have restricted E15, a blend containing up to 15 percent ethanol, during summer months due to higher volatility and emissions concerns. Supporters say expanded access will lower fuel costs for consumers and increase demand for domestically produced corn ethanol.
Opposition came from some Republican hard-liners and oil refining interests concerned about infrastructure compatibility and potential price effects at the pump. An earlier EPA emergency waiver had permitted limited E15 sales from May 1 through May 20, 2026, while Congress worked on permanent changes.
The legislation now advances to the Senate. Passage would mark a significant expansion of biofuel policy with direct benefits for agricultural states in the Midwest. Further details on implementation will be determined by the EPA.
