By Renewable Fuels Association
The Renewable Fuels Association today welcomed California’s inclusion of funding for E15 approval in the state’s newly enacted 2025–2026 budget. Signed by Governor Gavin Newsom on Friday, the budget allocates dedicated resources to fund the rulemaking process needed to make E15 a legal fuel. E15 is a gasoline blend containing 15 percent ethanol.
The provision ensures that the California Air Resources Board (CARB) has the financial support necessary to finalize regulatory work related to E15 and help expand consumer access to the fuel across the state. California remains the only state where E15 is not yet legal for sale, despite its long-standing approval by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for use in vehicles model year 2001 and newer.
“This is a positive step toward expanding access to lower-carbon, lower-cost fuel options in California,” said RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper. “We applaud Governor Newsom and legislative leaders for recognizing the need to take concrete action to support broader availability of E15. With this funding in place, California will finally be positioned to join the rest of the country in offering drivers a cleaner, more affordable choice at the pump. RFA and our members look forward to working alongside retailers, regulators, and local partners to help bring E15 to more California consumers.”