Renewable fuel vehicles using biofuels, ethanol and fuel cells hold much promise in reducing carbon emissions. Cars powered by fuel cells are fueled with hydrogen and emit zero emissions. Toyota, Honda and Hyundai now offer hydrogen fuel cell vehicles to consumers for about $80,000. Those concerned with the environment say more must be done to address the immediate problems resulting from climate change, in large part caused by the vehicles we drive. Our EPA administers the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) program that requires fuel to contain a minimum volume of renewable fuel such as ethanol. The RFS began requiring 4 billion gallons of renewable fuel in 2006 and this amount has increased to 22 billion gallons in 2025. This program was created to diversify the transportation fuel market, strengthen energy security, reduce air pollution and combat climate change by ensuring the United States uses more renewable fuel with each passing year. In some states the RFS is restricted in some summer months due to air quality regulations related to smog.

The Renewable Fuel Standard benefits farmers, biofuel producers, energy security, and consumers (via cost savings & cleaner air), and creates jobs, but has mixed impacts on livestock farmers & food costs. However, RFS supporters claim the Trump administration’s misuse of the EPA’s waiver authority is undermining the RFS program and damaging the renewable fuel industry.

Pending Legislation: H.R.1346 - Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act of 2025
Sponsor: Rep. Adrian Smith (NE)
Status: House Committee on Energy and Commerce
Chair: Rep. Brett Guthrie (KY)