Why It Matters

The ethanol industry is suffering from a farm economy crisis which has created urgent political pressure to expand domestic corn demand. Growth Energy must defend against legislative threats to the Renewable Fuel Standard.

The challenge is securing permanent year-round E15 sales, guaranteeing implementation of the new 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit, and opening emerging markets in sustainable aviation fuel—all while protecting the RFS from active repeal efforts.

Growth Energy’s lobbying strategy reflects this urgency: the organization has rapidly expanded its in-house team with deeply connected congressional staffers, positioned to navigate both chambers and leverage bipartisan support rooted in farm state economics.

By the Numbers

Growth Energy Inc. spent $600,000 on in-house lobbying during Q3 2025, continuing a 16-year track record of sustained advocacy. The organization has filed 175 lobbying disclosures since 2009, totaling $29.4 million in cumulative spending.

Strategic Team Expansion: Growth Energy notably expanded its in-house team in mid-2025, adding three new registered lobbyists: Jared E. Henderson, Emma F. Keiser, and Ciara K. Markoski. Henderson brings 7+ years of Senate Agriculture Committee experience. Keiser provides connections to Sen. Joni Ernst (R-IA) through her recent role as Legislative Correspondent. Markoski adds Democratic network connections through internships with Sen. Bob Casey (D-PA) and Rep. Madeleine Dean (D-PA-4).

The core team includes Emily Skor (CEO), Christopher P. Bliley (former Chief of Staff to Rep. Jim Nussle (R-IA-1)), and John Martin Fuher (former Senate Budget Committee staffer).

The Agenda

Growth Energy is pushing for permanent year-round E15 fuel sales through the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act and the Ethanol for America Act, which would remove infrastructure barriers. The organization is advocating for 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit implementation guidance to ensure the landmark tax credit benefits domestic ethanol producers.

Growth Energy remains focused on defending the Renewable Fuel Standard against legislative repeal efforts, particularly H.R. 2460, while expanding into new markets by promoting the Farm To Fly Act to create sustainable aviation fuel opportunities for ethanol. The organization is also engaging EPA on vehicle emissions standards and continuing international trade efforts to expand ethanol market access abroad.

Broader Context

Congress faces mounting pressure from an agricultural economy in crisis. Economists project U.S. farmers could see roughly $44 billion in net cash income losses from 2025–26 crops, with corn farmers alone facing losses of about $20 billion. China trade tensions have devastated export markets, making domestic ethanol demand—which represents 35% of U.S. corn production—increasingly critical.

Several tailwinds favor Growth Energy’s agenda: The American Petroleum Institute reversed its support for permanent year-round E15 sales, removing a major competitor. California approved E15, making it available in all 50 states. The One Big Beautiful Bill Act extended the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit sunset from 2027 to 2029, providing regulatory certainty.

Between The Lines

The Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act has strong bipartisan backing from senators like Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Deb Fischer, and Chuck Grassley. Congress passed resolutions recognizing Renewable Fuels Month and the RFS’s 20th anniversary, signaling broad support.

However, H.R. 2460 seeks to repeal the renewable fuel standard entirely. Recent hearings underscore the political opportunity, with House Agriculture Committee highlighting a "bleak outlook" for farm income. Members like Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Ashley Hinson (R-IA) have actively pushed E15 expansion.

Competitive Landscape

POET LLC, a major ethanol producer, has been lobbying on identical core issues, including the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act, Farm To Fly Act, and 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit implementation. This coordinated industry effort demonstrates broad consensus and strengthens messaging to lawmakers.

The Bottom Line

The farm economy crisis, combined with bipartisan congressional support for biofuels expansion and the petroleum industry’s retreat from E15 support, creates optimal conditions for the organization’s legislative priorities. With a strategically expanded lobbying team featuring deep Republican ties to Iowa and Democratic connections to key committees, Growth Energy is well-positioned to advance year-round E15 sales, defend the RFS, and shape Clean Fuel Production Credit implementation.

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