The Trump administration issued an emergency waiver on March 25, 2026, allowing year-round sales of E15 gasoline to combat soaring fuel prices. This move is a direct response to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz due to conflict with Iran, which has cut 20% of global oil supply and pushed the national average gas price to $3.98 per gallon. The waiver, praised by biofuel advocates, is seen as a temporary measure with calls for a permanent legislative fix.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency issued an emergency waiver temporarily lifting summer restrictions on E15 gasoline sales. This action, announced on March 25, 2026, is a direct response to spiking fuel prices following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz due to conflict with Iran.
National average gasoline prices have risen more than a dollar in a month to $3.98 per gallon. Diesel prices have surged over 40 percent to $5.37 per gallon, with California drivers paying $5.83.
The waiver permits E15 sales from May 1 through May 20, a period the EPA can extend. The agency also issued a separate waiver for the standard E10 fuel blend.
EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin stated, “EPA waivers will work to prevent disruption in America’s fuel supply by keeping E15 and E10 on the market and giving Americans more fuel options.” Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins said the action would directly lower pump prices.
The policy received bipartisan and industry support. Sen. Amy Klobuchar had urged the administration to act, and the Renewable Fuels Association publicly praised the move.
Some lawmakers noted the measure’s limitations. Sen. Deb Fischer stated, “This is not a long-term solution, and it is far past time for Congress to make this permanent.” Brian Jennings, CEO of the American Coalition for Ethanol, said the current fuel price crisis justified the emergency waiver.
