WASHINGTON, D.C.—Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuel trade association, will welcome a contingent of farmers and biofuel producers to Washington, D.C. this week to attend the White House’s National Ag Week celebration on March 27.
“Agriculture is the bedrock of our economy, and Growth Energy is proud to celebrate the farmers who keep America growing,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “Ag Week is also an important opportunity to remind lawmakers that America’s farmers are ready to fuel more savings at the pump with low-cost, American-made biofuels. To put our crop surplus to work, Congress must act swiftly to deliver on President Trump’s call for year-round access to E15.”
“The President understands that farmers want reliable markets—not handouts,” said Mark Schmidt, chairman of the board at Glacial Lakes Energy. “With year-round E15, we can tap into surging demand for lower-cost fuel, create rural jobs, and boost America’s energy security.”
“Iowa leads the nation in biofuel production,” said Mark Wigans, CORN LP president and a fourth-generation Iowa farmer. “But for too long, outdated regulations on E15 have created needless uncertainty—affecting planting decisions, local investment and ultimately the value of every bushel we grow. It’s time for Congress deliver action for American farmers and motorists.”
After reaching an impasse in January, House leaders agreed to establish an E15 Rural Domestic Energy Council, tasked with striking a deal no later than February 15 and sending legislation to the House floor no later than February 25, 2026. While lawmakers report progress, no legislation has been introduced. According to Growth Energy, the entire supply chain—including farmers, biofuel producers, retailers, and the vast majority of refiners—has united behind a fix, but the legislation is being held hostage by a tiny handful of mid-sized refiners who are demanding unrelated handouts from the EPA.