The National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) is setting the record straight on the truth behind what would happen if the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) allowed a waiver of the Renewable Fuels Standard (RFS2). Garry Niemeyer, NCGA president sent a letter to every member of the House of Representatives along with EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson, that included corrects inaccuracies.
“Unfortunately, the letter sent to EPA Administrator Jackson did not provide accurate information about the amount of corn used to produce ethanol or livestock feed,” Niemeyer stated in the letter. “Furthermore, it lacks a comprehensive description of the “burden of proof” required under the RFS waiver provisions. The letter relies on long discredited claims that opponents of the RFS have continued to reference in their on-going efforts to repeal the RFS.”
One of the pieces of misinformation according to Niemeyer is that research has shown that increased worldwide demand and the rising cost of oil and other inputs have had a much greater effect on the price of corn than the ethanol required by the RFS. NCGA believes it is premature for the EPA to waive the RFS at this point and until the harvest numbers are final, it is too early to determine how much corn will be available.
“It is important to remember that a Congressional majority wisely passed a renewable fuel standard that would work in both good and bad crop years,” Niemeyer said. “NCGA urges you to consider the benefits of the RFS to rural America, American energy security and the American farmer.”
Neimeyer also encouraged members of Congress to visit with farmers and community leaders to learn more about the important role they play for America.