By Trish Svoboda

The Kansas Corn Growers Association (KCGA) has expressed concern over the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) new tailpipe emissions standards. The KCGA believes these standards, which heavily favor electric vehicles (EVs), will negatively impact consumers, farmers, and the rural economy.

They argue that the standards overlook the benefits of ethanol, a carbon-smart fuel, and instead use a one-size-fits-all approach by mandating EVs as the only climate solution. The KCGA warns that by 2026, half of the pickups available for purchase will be electric and unsuitable for heavy-duty farm use.

They also highlight a study predicting a significant decrease in corn demand and farmland value due to these standards. The KCGA urges support for the Next Generation Fuels Act, which promotes a cleaner fuel standard that utilizes American-grown biofuels. They argue for a balanced approach to climate goals that includes both EVs and biofuel blends.