Sec. Rollins holds up E15 pin during address at Commodity Classic
Rollins credited President Trump’s first-day declaration of a national energy emergency, which identified biofuels as key to extending fuel supplies and reducing pump prices. The administration has maximized regulatory tools, including emergency E15 waivers, but she stressed that permanent change requires congressional action.
“Congress must now do its job and pass nationwide year-round E15 legislation to continue to drive domestic crop demand,” Rollins told the crowd. “We are doing everything we can to make sure the message is heard loud and clear on Capitol Hill that there is no excuse. It is time to pass year-round E15. And what a win-win that is for our farmers and for our consumers.”
Rollins highlighted the EPA’s proposed record-high renewable volume obligation (RVO) under the Renewable Fuel Standard, with the Set 2 rule sent to the White House and expected to be finalized by the end of March. This would provide long-term certainty and increased demand for American biofuels feedstocks.
Rollins also pointed to the extension of 45Z clean fuel production tax credits through 2029 in the “One Big Beautiful Bill.” USDA is finalizing its regenerative feedstock rule to enable farmers using sustainable practices to capture premium prices for their crops. Another positive Rollins noted was ethanol exports, which rose 11% in 2025, as the administration pursues more trade opportunities worldwide.
The secretary’s remarks drew applause from the record crowd at Classic in her home state of Texas, many sporting “E15 NOW” buttons, underscoring the priority for corn growers and ethanol advocates.
Listen to Sec. Rollins’ address below:
Classic26 - Sec. Rollins (40:30)