we think that the best long-term solution for consumers is
a full repeal of the RFS," said API spokesperson, Carlton
Carroll. "There is growing recognition in Congress from
both parties and both houses of Congress that something
needs to be done about the renewable fuel standard including people like Rep. Joe Barton (R-TX) who was one of the
original cosigners of the rule who was now come out and
said it is fundamentally flawed and must be repealed. That
is the only way to guarantee that we do not have to rely in
the EPA each year to provide waivers that would protect
consumers from higher blends. So we are optimistic that
Congress will move forward with the full repeal."
In addition to Barton, API notes support among Senators
John Barrasso (R-WY); Mark Pryor (D-AR); Pat Toomey
(R-PA); Saxby Chambliss (R-GA; Ted Cruz (R-TX); Mike
Enzi (R-WY); John Boozman (R-AR); and Tim Scott
(R-SC). A bipartisan proposal to end the RFS was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives in April.
While repeal might be possible – more so than in previous years – it still represents an uphill fight. A significant
reform effort could be more likely.
"There is awareness in Congress and at the EPA that
something needs to be done but there aren't the votes today
www.npnweb.com n NPN Magazine
for repeal," said John Eichberger, National Association of
Convenience Stores vice president, government relations.
You can start with Dick Durbin (D-IL), the majority whip
in the Senate. He helps control the floor agenda and is one
of the strongest supporters of ethanol. So I dont see repeal
going anywhere. But there is a good chance to get a decent
reform package."
On the pro ethanol front, the recent flexibility shown at
EPA is seen as being a clear indication that no serious modifications – not to mention repeal – are needed.
"First and foremost, by decreasing the cellulosic requirement by 99.4 percent to a very realistic, achievable number,
the EPA has totally obliterated Big Oil's myth that the RFS
is inflexible and unworkable," said RFA's Dineen, commenting on the EPA's recent actions. "As in years past, the
finalized annual requirements are a testament to the inherent flexibility that is the backbone of the RFS." He further
amplified that sentiment in an Aug. 8 Bloomberg article.
"To a large extent, the effort in Congress probably lost a
little wind in its sails," he said, commenting on the proposed
2014 adjustments.
Only time will tell.
September 2013
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