California Moves Forward to Legalize E15 Fuel Sales

California, September 12, 2025

News Summary

California lawmakers have approved a bill to legalize E15 fuel sales, which consists of 15% ethanol. The legislation, passed with a 39-0 majority, aims to provide consumers with more economical fuel options amid rising prices, potentially benefiting farmers by creating a significant market for ethanol. Governor Newsom is expected to sign the bill, allowing immediate implementation before final approval from the California Air Resources Board. While supporters highlight cost-saving and environmental benefits, some concerns have been raised regarding monitoring and enforcement costs.

California lawmakers have taken significant steps toward legalizing the sale of E15, a fuel blend consisting of 15% ethanol, following the passage of a new bill. The California Senate approved the legislation with an overwhelming 39-0 majority. This new measure will allow gas stations to commence E15 sales prior to receiving final approval from the California Air Resources Board (CARB). Currently, California stands as the only state in the United States that does not allow the sale of E15.

The bill aims to offer a more economical option for California consumers who are facing soaring fuel prices. Industry experts predict that the introduction of E15 could create a market for an estimated 600 to 800 million gallons of ethanol, which would greatly benefit farmers grappling with current economic challenges. This legislative push is significant as California represents approximately 10% of the fuel market in the U.S., presenting a valuable opportunity for expansion in the ethanol market.

With the bill set to take immediate effect upon being signed by Governor Gavin Newsom, it is anticipated that he will approve the legislation, as he directed CARB to fast-track E15 sales in October 2024. The California Assembly had previously approved the bill in June 2025, paving the way for its swift progression through the legislative process.

A study conducted by the University of California, Berkeley, alongside the U.S. Naval Academy, indicated that E15 could yield yearly savings of up to $2.7 billion for California consumers, reducing gasoline prices by around 20 cents per gallon. Supporting voices from various industry groups, including the Renewable Fuels Association, claim that E15 offers multiple advantages such as lower costs, improved air quality, and enhanced engine performance.

Amid California’s persistent high fuel prices, supporters of the bill have emphasized the urgent need for cost-saving measures. Groups such as the California Farm Bureau and Growth Energy have expressed their backing for this legislation, citing both economic and environmental benefits surrounding the fuel blend.

Despite the broad support, some opponents, including officials from the state administration, have voiced concerns regarding the potential need for additional funding and resources to monitor and enforce fuel quality standards associated with E15. The California Department of Finance has characterized the current bill as redundant and cautionary about the potential increase in implementation costs.

Governor Newsom will have until October 12, 2025, to decide whether to sign or veto the bill, which comes with the likelihood of him facing backlash from both the Democratic party and biofuel producers depending on his final decision.

Background Context on E15 in California

Ethanol has been a focal point of discussions related to alternative fuel options in the United States. E15, which can be used in many newer vehicles without issues, is viewed as a strategic way to help lower fuel prices, encourage the use of agricultural products, and limit greenhouse gas emissions. California has historically been resistant to adopting E15 due to concerns regarding emissions and fuel quality standards, but with the current legislation, this may soon change.

Key Features of E15 Legislation in California

• Legislation passed with unanimous approval from the Senate.
• Allows gas stations to sell E15 before CARB’s final approval.
• Supports farmers and aims to reduce consumer fuel costs.
• Potential to generate a significant ethanol market.
• Major advancement in expanding the ethanol market nationally.

FAQs

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• Brownfield Ag News: California a Step Away from Legalizing E15 Sales
• Agriculture.com: California E15 Fate Now in Hands of Newsom
• AgWired: California Fuel Retailers Welcoming E15
• Wikipedia: Ethanol Fuel
• Google Search: California E15 Legislation

Author: STAFF HERE COSTA MESA WRITER

COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER The COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECostaMesa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Costa Mesa, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the OC Fair, Concerts in the Park, and Fish Fry. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce and Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Orange Coast, plus leading businesses in retail, fashion, and technology that power the local economy such as Vans, Experian, and South Coast Plaza. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, HERESanDiego.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.