Guest Opinion: Ethanol Policy and the Economy

by Paul Kenney (North Platte Bulletin) Recent reports from the University of Nebraska clearly document the impressive economic benefits that occur when the corn, cattle and ethanol industries are efficiently integrated. Economists describe the economic “bounce” we realize in the economy when value is added as grain is converted to food, fuel, fiber and bio-products.
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The constant attacks by Big Oil on ethanol and other biofuels are an attack on our way of life and our goal of maintaining a sound economy. Oil refiners continue to report record profits at a time when we face volatile oil prices.

Ethanol plays a key role in keeping gasoline prices lower thereby saving Nebraska consumers more than $70 million last year. Ethanol also helps reduce the toxicity of gasoline and lowers carbon monoxide levels by up to 30 percent compared to gasoline. But make no mistake: Big Oil is not a fan of ethanol.

Nebraska’s policymakers must actively and vocally show support for the federal Renewable Fuel Standard and push back against regulatory actions that impede the use of ethanol and other biofuels. READ MORE