For 20 years, the RFS has been a bedrock policy that supports hundreds of thousands of American jobs, provides more affordable fuel options at the pump for American drivers, enhances American energy and national security, and reduces emissions.
However, EPA still has to address almost 200 pending small refinery exemption (SRE) requests. Congress intended for SREs to be granted sparingly, as a temporary measure, and only when a refiner demonstrates “disproportionate economic hardship” in complying with the RFS. EPA should treat SREs as extraordinary measures that require a high standard of proof, consistent with the law. EPA should forecast any potential 2026 and 2027 exemptions as part of the final RVO to ensure we blend the full volume of required renewable fuel each year, as the Trump Administration did in 2020. A robust RVO, as currently proposed, supports rural economic growth, energy security and lowers fuel costs for all drivers.