H.R.1346 - Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1346, the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act of 2025, aims to amend the Clean Air Act concerning the ethanol waiver for Reid Vapor Pressure (RVP). The bill seeks to allow the sale of gasoline with a 10-15% ethanol blend (E10-E15) nationwide without facing RVP limitations during the high ozone season. It also addresses the generation of credits by small refineries under the Renewable Fuel Program, specifically for the 2016-2018 compliance years.
Expected Effects
The bill, if enacted, would potentially expand the availability of E10-E15 fuel blends across the country. This could lead to changes in fuel markets and potentially affect air quality and the operations of small refineries. The changes to the Renewable Fuel Program could provide financial relief or compliance flexibility to small refineries.
Potential Benefits
- Increased consumer choice in fuel options.
- Potential for lower fuel prices due to increased ethanol use.
- Provides regulatory relief for small refineries, potentially saving them money.
- May stimulate the agricultural sector by increasing demand for ethanol.
- Simplifies fuel regulations by creating a national standard for RVP waivers.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased emissions of certain pollutants associated with ethanol.
- Possible negative impacts on engine performance and durability in vehicles not designed for E15.
- May disadvantage fuel retailers who are not equipped to handle E15 fuel.
- Could lead to decreased demand for traditional gasoline, impacting the petroleum industry.
- Uncertainty regarding the long-term environmental and economic effects of widespread E15 use.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill primarily amends existing environmental regulations under the Clean Air Act, which falls under the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8) allowing Congress to regulate interstate commerce. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific individual rights or liberties protected by the Constitution or its amendments. The Tenth Amendment reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the states, but environmental regulation has been historically an area of shared federal and state authority.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).