Congressman Bill Enyart (D-IL) expressed concern to EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy about their proposal to reduce the amount of renewable fuels currently blended into gasoline this week, after receiving calls from farmer constituents against the proposed rule.

The Illinois Corn Growers Association applauds Congressman Enyart’s efforts on this issue.  Illinois corn farmers need the ethanol market to keep their corn prices above the cost of production and remain in business.  But just as important, America needs domestic renewable fuel and cheaper fueling options.

“Corn prices are already falling due to a record harvest and reducing the renewable fuel levels will cause prices to fall even further, hurting our Southern Illinois farmers,” stressed Enyart.  “This proposal also sends the message that the U.S. is backing off its commitment to biofuels as a pivotal component of our national energy policy.  Today I urged the EPA Administrator to reconsider this proposal and recommit to the support of biofuels research and production.”

                                                                                                                                                       Congressman Enyart, EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy and House

                                                                                                                                                       Agriculture Committee Ranking Member Colin Peterson (D-MN) discussed

                                                                                                                                                       the EPA’s proposed rule to reduce the amount of ethanol required to be sold

                                                                                                                                                       in 2014.