Efforts are ramping up again to allow E15 gasoline sales through the summer months, a move that could impact both fuel prices and corn demand heading into peak driving season.

E15, a blend containing 15% ethanol, is typically restricted during the summer due to federal regulations tied to air quality. Each year, however, pressure builds to allow continued sales as travel increases and fuel demand rises.

For agriculture, the stakes are clear.

Ethanol remains one of the largest demand drivers for U.S. corn. Expanding access to E15 during the summer months increases usage and can provide support to corn prices at a time when global supplies remain heavy.

The push for a waiver highlights an ongoing issue within the ethanol industry — the lack of a permanent solution for year-round E15 sales. Until that changes, the market continues to rely on temporary approvals to maintain demand through the busiest driving months of the year.