BLOOMINGTON, Ill. – Upon reading the final EPA emissions standards for sedans and light-and medium-duty trucks, IL Corn Growers Association President Dave Rylander, a farmer from Victoria, IL, said the following: 

“This is a very disappointing day for Illinois corn farmers. The Environmental Protection Agency has picked their preferred technology for the transportation industry without regard to their published goal of lowering greenhouse gas emissions or how best to achieve the goal. 

“Their one-size-fits-all solution is for the entire nation to convert to battery electric vehicles, no matter if the infrastructure exists, no matter if the battery materials come from hostile countries, no matter if Americans want to buy these vehicles. Most important for Illinois corn farmers, they are also ignoring the impact on farmers and rural communities. 

“The University of Nebraska-Lincoln has already warned that this policy could have the unintended consequence of a 50 percent decrease in the price of corn and a potential $100 billion decline in the collective value of farmland in the Midwest. They predict if these forecasts come true, there will be profound implications for the financial viability of Midwestern farming operations and the nation’s food supply. 

“Corn-based ethanol can contribute to this very important goal of cleaning the air and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Ethanol reduces GHG emissions by 40-45 percent over regular petroleum fuel, it invests in our local economies, and it allows Americans to buy the cars they want to buy. Corn farmers have been asking continuously over the last ten years for the opportunity to help decarbonize liquid fuels. Why is the Biden administration ignoring an easy opportunity to accomplish their goals AND invest in America?” 

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About the IL Corn Growers Association 

IL Corn Growers Association is a state-based organization that represents the interests of corn farmers in Illinois, maintaining a high profile on issues in Washington, DC, and Springfield, IL. Through grassroots advocacy, ICGA creates a future for Illinois farmers in which they can operate freely, responsibly, and successfully. In order to fulfill this mission, the organization conducts governmental affairs activities at all levels, market development projects, and educational and member service programs. For further information regarding their work and involvement, visit their website www.ilcorn.org.