Congress Prepares for Fertilizer, E15 Debates

National Association of Farm Broadcasting

Congress returns this week with major agriculture issues dominating the agenda, including fertilizer costs, biofuel policy and farm economic concerns. The Senate Agriculture Committee is expected to review fertilizer supply challenges as farmers continue facing elevated input prices tied to global supply disruptions and trade uncertainty. Meanwhile, the House is preparing to consider legislation allowing year-round nationwide sales of E15 gasoline blends containing 15% ethanol. Corn growers and ethanol groups have pushed for permanent E15 access for years, arguing the policy would expand domestic fuel supplies and strengthen corn demand. Oil industry groups have raised concerns about fuel infrastructure compatibility and regulatory impacts. Farm organizations also are urging lawmakers to address broader economic pressures, including weak commodity prices and higher operating costs during spring planting season. The debate comes as Congress continues negotiations on a long-delayed farm bill that includes commodity programs, conservation funding and nutrition assistance priorities.