The Environmental Protection Agency announced on Wednesday it will temporarily lift federal limits on E15 and E10 gasoline blends to help lower prices strained by the Iran conflict. The waiver aims to boost fuel supply starting May 1. Gas prices have reached nearly $4 per gallon, the highest since 2022.
The EPA, under President Donald Trump, stated it is waiving restrictions barring E15—gasoline blended with 15% ethanol—from sale during summer months, a measure typically in place to reduce air pollution. The agency is also removing 'all federal impediments' to E10 sales nationwide. These changes will take effect May 1 and last until May 20, with possible extension, EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin said. 'EPA is working with our federal partners to reduce unnecessary costs and uncertainty and ensure that gas prices remain affordable for all Americans through the summer. This emergency action will provide American families with relief by increasing fuel supply and consumer choice,' Zeldin said. He added that President Trump has prioritized affordable domestic energy, noting progress in the administration's first year. National average gas prices hit nearly $4 per gallon this week, per AAA, up due to the ongoing war in Iran where attacks have shut the Strait of Hormuz, through which 25% of world oil passes. Diesel averages $5.37 per gallon, a 40% jump. Brent crude spiked to nearly $120 per barrel recently from $60-$70 in 2025, now at $98. Though the US imports little Middle East oil, global markets are disrupted. Trump acknowledged pump pain but prioritized the operation early on, saying it is 'far more important than having gasoline prices go up a little bit' and prices would drop 'very rapidly' post-operation. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said on March 10 the price rise is temporary, with long-term drops expected. Allies including the UK, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands and Japan offered help securing the strait.
