WASHINGTON, DC, US — US lawmakers have included a plan for year-round sales of E15 gasoline in a government funding bill released on Dec. 17.

“Legislation to ensure year-round availability of E15 in the US has been at the top of our to-do list for a very long time,” said Brian Jennings, chief executive officer of the American Coalition for Ethanol (ACE). “Inclusion of this provision will drive demand for homegrown, low-carbon ethanol, tackle inflation by delivering savings at the pump for consumers and strengthen America’s energy security.”

Right now, sales of E15, a gasoline blend of 15% ethanol, are effectively blocked from June to September.

The Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) said it was pleased that the long-awaited fix allowing the sales of E15 year-round were included in the funding package.

“This language would finally remove an outdated, red-tape regulatory barrier, and we remain hopeful that the continuing resolution will move swiftly through Congress and to the president’s desk for signature,” said Geoff Cooper, president and CEO of the RFA. “Allowing year-round sales of E15 will benefit farmers, fuel retailers, and — most importantly — consumers seeking lower-cost, cleaner fuel options at the pump.”