As ethanol producers push for an increased amount of ethanol in gasoline, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says the government should move quickly for this allowance. Both Secretary Vilsack and Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi spoke to the National Farmers Union annual convention in Arlington, Va.

“We can, we believe, move fairly quickly to move the blend rate to 12 or 13 percent in the interim,” said Vilsack. An increase in the ethanol additive can boost the demand for the product as much as 6 billion gallons a year. However, tests still need to be done on automobiles and small engines to be sure the increase of ethanol is not harmful.

Adora Andy, the EPA’s press secretary, said in a statement that the agency will review the request and “act based on the best available science.” The EPA is the reigning power on lifting the cap.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi is also in support of the increase in the ethanol additive. She added, “It seems to me we should be able to do that.”