WASHINGTON, DC - House Energy and Commerce Committee leaders today responded to the Environmental Protection Agency’s proposed rule setting out Renewable Fuel Standard targets for 2014, which attempts to address concerns with the RFS for the upcoming year. The Energy and Commerce Committee, through a series of bipartisan white papers and hearings, has carefully explored emerging issues with the RFS, particularly the challenge of integrating the increasing mandated levels of ethanol into a shrinking gasoline pool.
“As our white papers and hearings made clear, the status quo is no longer workable," said Chairman Fred Upton (R-MI). “Many of the issues raised by EPA, stakeholders, and consumer advocates are now reflected in the agency’s proposed rule. While the proposal is not a perfect solution, these targets would alleviate the immediate pressure of a looming blend wall. Yet uncertainty remains for the future. As we monitor EPA’s rulemaking developments, our work toward achieving comprehensive reforms and a long-term solution will continue."
“EPA is thoughtfully addressing concerns about the RFS," said Ranking Member Henry A. Waxman (D-CA). “As we continue to look at this policy, I encourage EPA to implement the RFS in ways that increase environmental benefits, especially by reducing carbon pollution, both through supporting cellulosic and other low-carbon fuels and by minimizing emissions from indirect effects on land use."
