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Energy Policy · EPA Waivers · Fuel Prices · Iran War
The Trump administration, through the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), temporarily waived regulations on gasoline types, including E15 and E10, from May 1 to May 20, to combat a more than 30% surge in gasoline prices to $3.98 per gallon and a 40% rise in diesel prices to $5.37 per gallon, driven by the Iran war.
The EPA lifted restrictions on E15, a fuel blended with 15% ethanol, which is typically restricted in about half the U.S. from June through September due to air pollution regulations. Additionally, the agency removed federal impediments to selling E10 gas, blended with 10% ethanol, and suspended federal enforcement of certain state fuel requirements, allowing gasoline with 9% to 15% ethanol content.
EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin stated these waivers prevent fuel supply disruption and offer Americans more fuel options, noting the waivers could be extended beyond May 20 if needed. Gasoline prices are at their highest levels since 2022, when Russia's invasion of Ukraine impacted global energy markets, according to data from travel association AAA.
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