EPA Expands E15 Access and Ditches Boutique Fuels to Stabilize Summer Gas Prices

The EPA, in coordination with the DOE and under the Clean Air Act, issued a temporary emergency waiver to allow nationwide sale of E15 and to remove state boutique fuel rules for E10, effective May 1–20, 2026, to bolster the U.S. fuel supply and reduce pump prices ahead of summer. The move relaxes low-volatility and blending limits and sets a nationwide 10 psi Reid Vapor Pressure standard, with E15 already available at about 3,000 stations. Officials say the action increases consumer choice and domestic energy independence while environmental protections remain intact, and the EPA may extend the waivers if conditions warrant.