March 09, 2022

As U.S. Bans Russian Oil, Duckworth Joins Ernst, Klobuchar in Calling for Expansion of American Biofuels to Lower Gas Prices

 

[WASHINGTON, D.C.] — As gas prices hit all-time record highs and with the U.S. banning the import of Russian oil, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) joined U.S. Senators Joni Ernst (R-IA) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) in calling for American biofuel to be unleashed under a bipartisan plan to replace Russian oil with cleaner, lower-cost and American-made renewable fuels that are available right now. The Home Front Energy Independence Act would ban Russian oil and expand use and production of biofuel that’s grown in the American heartland, while providing American families with a less expensive option to fuel their vehicles. The current excess ethanol capacity domestically is nearly the same as the amount of Russian gas the U.S. had been importing: roughly 83 million barrels versus 87 million barrels.

“I’m pleased the Biden Administration moved to ban all Russian oil, but that’s just one important action we must take,” Duckworth said. “Our country is a global energy leader, and this conflict has highlighted that it’s long past time we invest in also leading the world in renewable and clean energy so we can continue decreasing our dependence on foreign oil. Producing less expensive fuel choices like E15 year-round will save families money at the pump, while strengthening our nation and driving economic opportunity throughout the Midwest.”

“As gas prices hit record highs for Americans across the country, it’s never been clearer that energy security is national security,” said Ernst. “Banning Russian oil was long overdue, but it’s far past time for President Biden to make good on the promises he made on the campaign trail to Iowa farmers and producers to support our state’s biofuel that is American-made, ready, and available to meet our nation’s needs right away.”

“This legislation will help hold Putin accountable for Russia’s unprovoked invasion of Ukraine while investing in affordable, readily-available biofuels produced in the U.S. I have long pushed for pro-biofuel policies because they are good for drivers, farmers, and the environment. It’s time for Congress to take action by passing this bill immediately,” said Klobuchar

The Home Front Energy Independence Act would make E15 available year round, establish an E15 and Biodiesel Tax Credit, direct EPA to finalize their E15 labeling rule and provide for biofuel infrastructure and compatibility with retailers. Along with Senators Duckworth, Ernst and Klobuchar, this legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Roger Marshall (R-KS), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and Deb Fischer (R-NE).

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