Gov. Mark Dayton

After decisively winning a second term, what can we expect from Dayton over the next four years with regards to the biofuels industry? While we weren't able to submit our pre-elections questions to Dayton, some of his past comments and actions could give us an idea of his commitment to biofuels.

October is Biofuels Month

In 2013, Dayton declared October as Biofuels Month in Minnesota. Specifically, it was an opportunity to recognize the role biofuels have played in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, our dependence on foreign oil, prices at the pump and growing our rural economy. October 2013 was also the same month when the first E15 station was launched in the state.

RFS

Dayton was one of the more vocal opponents of the EPA's proposal to reduce the renewable volume obligations under the RFS last year. Along with fellow Governor, Terry Branstad, Dayton sent a letter to the EPA voicing their opposition to the agency's proposal and highlighting the various benefits biofuels have brought to their respective states and the rest of the country. Below is an excerpt from that letter:

"Renewable fuels have breathed new economic life into many distressed rural areas. They put money in the pockets of farmers, workers, and owners; and every business on Main Street shares the benefits. They have even sparked a renewed interest in agriculture among young people, who now see a future in farming. People from all walks of life, all across rural America, and across party lines, stand firm in our resolve for a robust RFS. Will Washington listen to us or to Big Oil?" - Gov. Mark Dayton & Gov. Terry Branstad.

Increasing Ethanol Use

In August of this year, Dayton kicked off the 2014 American Coalition of Ethanol Conference in Minneapolis. Among the things he mentioned during his keynote address included:

Flex-fuel engines from all auto manufacturers so that consumers have an option of filling up with E10 or E85

Increasing the current ethanol blend from E10 to E20 in Minnesota.