The Nebraska Corn Growers Association (NeCGA) applauds the reintroduction of the Next Generation Fuels Act of 2021 (H.R. 5089). This bipartisan legislation is the first step in the legislative and regulatory process to modernize our liquid fuel supply to a low carbon, high octane fuel, of which corn-based ethanol in uniquely qualified to meet both traits. Recognizing the benefits of higher blends of ethanol, the legislation will also improve air quality and human health.
“This legislation is a priority for Nebraska’s corn growers in providing long term demand for ethanol and liquid fuels,” says Andy Jobman, NeCGA president and farmer from Gothenburg. “Corn-based ethanol provides the low carbon and high-octane characteristics that will assist automakers in increasing fuel efficiency, improving air quality for consumers and boosting demand for our corn farmers.”
The bill, as introduced, would phase in higher blends of octane by model year 2026, a key step supported by NeCGA. This would allow automakers to begin optimizing engines for higher octane in meeting increasingly stringent mileage standards, while also supporting agriculture’s contribution towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
“As corn growers, we greatly appreciate Congresswoman Cheri Bustos and other bi-partisan co-sponsors from Illinois, Iowa, Kentucky and Missouri. We will continue to work with Nebraska’s representatives to support the legislation that will increase demand for corn and biofuels,” added Jobman.
You can learn more about the benefits of ethanol’s characteristics of low carbon, high octane at ncga.com/octane.