Flex Fuel Fairness Act of 2025
Summary
The Flex Fuel Fairness Act of 2025 aims to revise EPA regulations regarding carbon dioxide emissions standards for flexible fuel vehicles (FFVs). It mandates that the EPA Administrator allow manufacturers to use a lower gram per mile CO2 value for FFVs when determining fleet average CO2 standards. This reduction is initially set at 31% compared to non-FFVs of the same make and model.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this act would incentivize the production and use of flexible fuel vehicles by providing manufacturers with compliance advantages. The EPA could further adjust the CO2 value reduction based on updated versions of the GREET model developed by Argonne National Laboratory. This could lead to greater adoption of E85 fuel.
Potential Benefits
- Potentially reduces greenhouse gas emissions if E85 fuel usage increases.
- May incentivize the development and production of more flexible fuel vehicles.
- Could support the agricultural sector through increased demand for corn-based ethanol.
- Provides regulatory flexibility for manufacturers in meeting fleet average CO2 standards.
- Allows for adjustments based on updated scientific models.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- The 31% reduction may not accurately reflect real-world emissions reductions.
- Potential for unintended consequences if the GREET model is flawed or outdated.
- May create a loophole for manufacturers to meet standards without significant emissions reductions.
- Could divert resources from other potentially more effective emissions reduction strategies.
- The focus on corn-based ethanol may have negative environmental impacts related to land use and fertilizer.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act falls under the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8) which grants Congress the power to regulate interstate commerce, including environmental regulations that affect the economy. The Act does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations. The Act delegates authority to the EPA Administrator, which is a common practice, but Congress retains oversight through its legislative powers (Article I, Section 1).
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).