South Bend, Ind. – Today, Congressman Joe Donnelly applauded an announcement made by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approving E15 gasoline for vehicles from model years 2001 to 2006.  E15 is a blend of gasoline containing 15 percent ethanol, an increase of 50 percent over the previously allowed E10.  Since coming to Congress in 2007, Congressman Donnelly has promoted greater ethanol use to create jobs and boost American-made energy.

“This expansion of E15-eligible vehicles is great news for Hoosier farmers and ethanol plants,” said Donnelly.  “As a result of this decision, our farmers and ethanol plants will see an increase in demand for ethanol and our region will receive an economic boost.  Corn grown right here in north central Indiana and processed at facilities like New Energy in South Bend and the Andersons in Clymers will play an even larger role in helping America lessen its dependence on foreign oil.”

In November 2007, Congressman Donnelly signed onto a bipartisan letter to President George W. Bush requesting that EPA begin testing higher blends of ethanol in gasoline, such as E15.  In April 2009, Congressman Donnelly signed onto a letter to EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson requesting that EPA approve the use of E15.

In October 2010, the EPA approved E15 for cars of model year 2007 or newer.  Today’s decision approved E15 for vehicles from model years 2001 to 2006.  Together, this accounts for 61 percent of cars on American roads.

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