Corn Growers Frustrated Over Lack Of Movement On E15

Posted on: Jan 22, 2026

(JEFFERSON CITY, Mo.)-The Missouri Corn Growers Association (MCGA) joins other corn organizations and biofuel groups in expressing frustration with today's decision by leadership in the U.S. House of Representatives to advance a funding bill that omits language allowing year-round, nationwide access to E15 fuel. The following statement is from MCGA President Brian Lehman, a corn grower from Versailles, Mo.

"Missouri corn growers are outraged by Congress's decision to punt year-round E15 once again and instead create a so-called task force. After more than a decade of delays, negotiations, and good-faith work by farmers, fuel retailers, ethanol producers, and even the oil industry, Congress knows exactly what needs to be done. We already have a bill. We already have an agreement. At a time when farmers are producing record crops and facing real economic pressure, this move is offensive.

"This decision sends a clear and troubling message. Congressional leadership is choosing to side with a handful of large refineries instead of hardworking American farmers and consumers. Year-round E15 is a simple, commonsense fix to lower fuel costs, strengthen domestic energy security, support rural jobs, and put more American-grown corn to work.

"The battle isn't over. We'll continue working to break through the blend wall to give drivers greater access to a cleaner, more affordable, domestically produced energy source. We are grateful to the members of Congress who fought with us, especially Congressman Mark Alford, and to every grower who spoke up on this issue. MCGA and partners will continue to push for action in building demand for an American-grown, American-made energy option."