President Donald Trump is urging Congress to pass legislation that would permit the year-round sale of E15 gasoline, a fuel blend containing 15% ethanol. The proposal was included in the White House’s updated 2026 budget request submitted to Congress on June 24. Advocates argue the change would enhance consumer choice, bolster domestic fuel production, and add flexibility to fuel markets amid ongoing concerns over rising gas prices during an election year.

Currently, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) grants temporary summer waivers allowing E15 sales in warmer months, but these exemptions are set to expire soon. The push to make year-round availability permanent would codify this temporary policy into law. The House of Representatives approved the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailers Choice Act on May 13, which would enable the permanent sale of E15. However, the Senate has yet to vote on the bill before it can reach the president’s desk for signing.

Supporters such as the National Corn Growers Association emphasize that year-round E15 sales would help drivers save money at the pump while increasing demand for corn used in ethanol production. Meanwhile, the EPA notes that E15 is currently offered at over 3,000 gas stations nationwide—primarily in the Midwest—and describes it as a more affordable fuel option for consumers. According to AAA, the national average price for regular gasoline stood at $3.83 per gallon on July 2, down from $4.29 a month earlier in June but still higher than the $2.98 average recorded at the end of February.

E15 differs from the more common E10 blend in the market, which contains about 10% ethanol. While proponents point to potential cost savings—citing a 2023 Renewable Fuels Association study estimating about a 25-cent per gallon discount compared to regular gasoline—environmental groups remain critical. Some advocates express concerns about ethanol’s environmental impact and its pollutant emissions, which they say are comparable to those from traditional gasoline.

Regarding vehicle compatibility, the EPA states that E15 is safe for flexible-fuel vehicles and most cars manufactured after 2001. However, it is not approved for use in motorcycles, heavy-duty highway and nonroad engines such as school buses and delivery trucks, boats, snowmobiles, or older model year vehicles (2000 and earlier). Consumer Reports concurs with the EPA’s assessment but advises consumers to consult their vehicle’s manual before using E15 fuel. The organization warns that while a single tank of E15 may not cause immediate harm to older cars, repeated use could pose long-term risks.

As the debate continues, the future of year-round E15 sales now hinges on the Senate’s consideration of pending legislation and balancing the interests of consumers, domestic agriculture, environmental groups, and automakers.