I have been receiving input from constituents and the stakeholder organizations involved in the biofuel proposal. I appreciate the input and concerns expressed. I hope to answer your questions.

If enacted, SSB 3084, the governor’s biofuel proposal, would create an E15 access standard, which requires gas stations to sell E15 at more of their pumps. E15 is gasoline that contains 15 percent ethanol. It is cheaper per gallon than typical unleaded blends and works in most 2001-to-present vehicles. Under the bill, all retailers with compatible infrastructure must offer E15 by Jan. 1 of 2026. New fuel retailers that open on or after Jan. 1 of 2023 must offer E15 from 50 percent of their dispensers.

This version of the bill does offer waivers from the requirement for certain conditions. The governor can waive the E15 access standard statewide or on a regional basis if there is an E15 supply shortage, if the price of E15 will create a demonstrated economic hardship, or if widespread infrastructure compatibility issues are present.

There are two waivers available for individual retailers.

One can be due to incompatible infrastructure due to the age of the infrastructure. Retailers can also get a waiver if the overall cost to upgrade the infrastructure exceeds roughly $71,000.

Retailers are eligible for 70 percent of costs from the Renewable Fuels Infrastructure Program (RFIP), up to $50,000. Tax credits available to retailers will also be extended and created for ethanol and biodiesel blends.

This bill will now be considered by the full Agriculture Committee.

State Sen. Tim Kraayenbrink, R-Fort Dodge, represents Calhoun, Humboldt and Pocahontas counties plus most of Webster County.