U.S. Rep. Peter Welch (D-Vt.) and Sen. Tom Udall (D-N.M.) introduced the “Growing Renewable Energy through Existing and New Environmentally Responsible Fuels Act” in the U.S. House (H.R. 5212) and Senate (S. 2519).

The AMA supports these bills.

The legislation would cap mandated ethanol content in the nation’s fuel supply at 9.7 percent and require the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to prioritize the use of cellulosic biofuel ahead of other biofuels when determining volumes below blend wall levels.

In other words, the bill would stop the federal government from forcing E15 fuel (15 percent ethanol by volume) into the market.

Capping the ethanol mandate helps ensure the availability of fuels safe for motorcycles, such as E10, and a continuing place in the market for ethanol-free gasoline (E0) for older motorcycles.

Inadvertent use of E15 in vehicles not designed for its use can damage fuel system and engine components and void manufacturers’ warranties.