A results-driven path forward

By U.S. Rep. Adrian Smith
R-Nebraska

Nebraska’s farmers have been clear from the very beginning: they need reliable markets to sell their products. Every day, agricultural producers face countless factors outside of their control, whether that be commodity prices, input costs, or weather. 

Policymakers have a responsibility to deliver as much certainty, opportunity, and market development as we can provide. These aren’t abstract concepts, but the foundation of a strong rural economy and a resilient agricultural sector. That is why I will not rest until nationwide, year-round E15 (15% ethanol gasoline) becomes a reality.

Recently, we hit a frustrating roadblock. Despite months of hard work and bipartisan engagement, year-round E15 was not included in the final government funding package for Fiscal Year 2026. I understand the frustration many farmers are feeling right now, and I share it. I am incredibly disappointed that we were not able to get this across the finish line at this moment. However, this setback is far from the end of the fight.

For a long time, I have been leading the charge to bring agricultural producers, biofuel leaders, and petroleum stakeholders to the table. These conversations have not always been easy, but they have been necessary. The goal has been simple: deliver regulatory relief and long-term certainty while strengthening every link in our domestic energy supply chain. Because, when farmers win, consumers save, and when our domestic energy supply is stronger, the entire country benefits.

As a result of these efforts, we remain closer than ever to passing year-round E15. While we have not yet crossed the finish line, I am encouraged by the creation of the E15 Rural Domestic Energy Council. Let me be clear about what this council is and what it is not.

It is not a substitute for action, and I refuse to allow it to become a delaying tactic. This council represents a results-driven commitment from House leadership to finally deliver a durable, nationwide solution. The Council will build upon the conversations and negotiations I have been leading with stakeholders throughout the supply chain.

I look forward to working alongside my colleagues on the council to produce a viable path forward by Feb. 25. House Republican Leadership has made clear their commitment to securing that path, and I trust my colleagues are equally focused on solutions. Together, we must work in good faith to develop a proposal which works for all sides. 

The fight for nationwide, year-round E15 is far from over. Moving forward, I will continue to pursue every available avenue to make it permanent ahead of the 2026 growing season. Nebraska’s farmers deserve nothing less, and I will not rest until this promise becomes reality. 

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