Signed, Sealed And Delivered: E15 Approved For Sale In Missouri

(JEFFERSON CITY, Mo.)–It is official. Missouri retailers can now offer E15 (15 percent ethanol, 85 percent gasoline) at the pump, providing consumers a cleaner-burning, cost-saving option over conventional gasoline. The final rule approving the sale of E15 was published in the May 15 Missouri Register released by Missouri Secretary of State Jason Kander. This was the last step needed to complete the thorough regulatory process.  
 
“This is a huge win for consumers and a long-fought victory for ethanol and corn producers,” noted Missouri Corn Growers Association (MCGA) President Jim Stuever of Dexter, Mo. “Despite the oil industries’ best efforts to block the inclusion of E15 in Missouri’s fuel supply, common sense eventually prevailed. We would like to thank Gov. Jay Nixon and the leadership in both the House and Senate for their commitment to seeing this rule through final approval.”
 
One of the most rigorously tested fuels in history, the Environmental Protection Agency approved the use of E15 in vehicles model year 2001 and newer as well as all flexible fuel vehicles in June 2012. The rule was promulgated by the Missouri Department of Agriculture to bring Missouri in line with the other 12 states where E15 is available: Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Kansas, Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan, North Carolina, Arkansas, Minnesota and Ohio.
 
Fuel retailers in St. Louis can immediately begin selling E15. At this time, the oil industry does not provide a blend stock during summer months to Missouri that would allow the blending of E15. Availability of E15 is expected to rise after September 15, when the summer blend is phased out.
   
Missouri Corn is currently working with retailers and fuel marketers interested in offering E15 to customers. In conjunction with the Renewable Fuels Association, MCGA is coordinating several day-long education sessions to walk through the process of introducing a new product to the marketplace.
 
“We want retailers to hit the ground running as soon as they have the ability to sell E15,” said Stuever. “As with any new fuel blend, retailers need to be confident with the product they’re offering and we’re happy to help. E15 is growing in popularity in surrounding states and Missouri drivers deserve those same benefits.”
 
Ethanol is already available for Missouri drivers in blends ranging from 10 percent up to 85 percent for Flexible Fuel Vehicles. Visit www.mocorn.org to learn more about ethanol production and find answers to frequently asked questions.