As we approach the 2020 elections, it's time for us to once again examine where Minnesota's candidates - both state and federal - stand on issues concerning Minnesota's ethanol industry. We contacted state candidates running in districts where there are ethanol plants, as well as candidates that currently sit on key committees in the Minnesota legislature. Not all the candidates replied to our questions. As such, we will only feature those that responded to us.
To kick off this series, we head to district 09B where the incumbent, Rep. Ron Kresha, is up against Laura Wright. Below are their responses to our questions.
Ron Kresha (R)
Q. Do you support Minnesota’s Petroleum Replacement Law (Minn. Stat. 239.7911), which calls for the consumption of at least 30 percent biofuels in transportation fuel by 2025?
A. Yes.
Q. Given the large number of spark ignition engine powered vehicles on the road and the need to rapidly reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the transportation sector, what is your position concerning a Minnesota Low Carbon High Octane Fuel Standard/Clean Fuels Policy which would result in higher consumption of ethanol?
A. Yes.
Q. Do you support accelerating the permitting process for installation of equipment to improve ethanol production and reduce emissions?
A. Yes.
Q. Do you support making higher ethanol blends, such as E15, available across Minnesota through infrastructure funding?
A. Yes.
Added comment: Biofuels has been a big part of my district and Little Falls and thus I have supported the industry with my votes and efforts.
Laura Wright (D)
Q. Do you support Minnesota’s Petroleum Replacement Law (Minn. Stat. 239.7911), which calls for the consumption of at least 30 percent biofuels in transportation fuel by 2025?
A. Yes. I support ethanol use and ethanol increased use in the future and, of course, would consider funding opportunities that support the industry as it continues to evolve.
Q. Given the large number of spark ignition engine powered vehicles on the road and the need to rapidly reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the transportation sector, what is your position concerning a Minnesota Low Carbon High Octane Fuel Standard/Clean Fuels Policy which would result in higher consumption of ethanol?
A. Yes.
Q. Do you support accelerating the permitting process for installation of equipment to improve ethanol production and reduce emissions?
A. Yes.
Q. Do you support making higher ethanol blends, such as E15, available across Minnesota through infrastructure funding?
A. Yes.