Law benefits every Iowan’s pocketbook

On the last day of the state legislative session, House File 640 passed. This important law benefits every Iowan's pocketbook, while bolstering opportunities for Iowa farmers and businesses.

This legislation guarantees the long-standing practice of blending biofuel products locally. Fuel distributors and retailers championed efforts to pass the new law requiring major oil refiners to offer unblended gasoline and diesel. This ensures that Iowans have the option of using ethanol and biodiesel products manufactured in our state.

The positive effect of this measure is widespread and a windfall for Iowans. The use of homegrown fuel resources reduces transportation costs and lowers the product-to-market carbon footprint. It also drives our local economy and accommodates consumer demand for locally produced products. That's a rare scenario where everyone wins - Iowa farmers, Iowa retailers and Iowa consumers.

The “Mom and Pop” stores that blanket this state have established a long-standing and proven track record of mixing quality fuel products.

The passage of this bill also fortifies an essential part of our free market: the right to choose how we do business. Given this measure, I am confident Iowa farmers and businesses alike will continue to work together for the collective good of this state. This is especially significant because more than 84 percent of all gasoline sold in Iowa contains ethanol, and a growing percent of diesel contains biofuel mix.

The fact that such an effective piece of government emerged from this session buoys my faith in our elected officials.

Scott R. Cornish

Vice President & General Manager.

Petroleum Services Company, LLC

Coralville