A new nationwide poll just released by the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) shows a record 74 percent of registered voters support the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) today, with just 12 percent opposed to the policy first enacted in 2005 and expanded in 2007. This is the highest level of support for the RFS in 10 years of quarterly polling by RFA.

The poll, conducted by Morning Consult on behalf of RFA, surveyed more than 2,000 registered voters and also found that 87 percent believe it is important for America to be energy independent, and 80 percent said renewable fuels like ethanol are important to achieving energy independence.

“As Americans celebrate our nation’s independence this Fourth of July, these poll results send a clear message: voters recognize that American-made renewable fuels like ethanol strengthen our energy security, support domestic jobs, and help reduce our reliance on foreign energy,” said RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper. “Record-high support for the Renewable Fuel Standard reflects a growing understanding that homegrown, affordable renewable fuels are essential to America’s energy future and economic strength.”

With the holiday weekend approaching and gas prices still high, the poll also found that 83 percent are concerned about gas price fluctuations, with 53 percent being very concerned, while 71 percent said rising gasoline prices are likely to influence their vote in the upcoming mid-term elections.