Trump Administration Moves to Ease Fuel Prices

 The administration of Donald Trump announced new emergency measures on Wednesday aimed at easing rising fuel prices, as energy markets remain under pressure due to the ongoing conflict with Iran.

In a temporary move, the Environmental Protection Agency has suspended certain seasonal fuel regulations, allowing broader sales of higher-ethanol gasoline blends. The decision includes lifting restrictions on E15 gasoline, which contains 15% ethanol and is typically banned in many U.S. states during the summer months due to environmental concerns.

The agency also issued a waiver removing federal barriers to the sale of E10 fuel, enabling greater flexibility in producing and distributing gasoline blends containing between 9% and 15% ethanol. These measures are set to take effect from May 1 through May 20, with officials signaling the possibility of extensions if market pressures persist.

EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin said the waivers are intended to prevent disruptions in fuel supply by keeping more options available in the market. He added that the agency will continue monitoring supply conditions closely in coordination with industry partners and federal authorities.

These measures come as fuel prices in the United States have risen sharply. According to data from AAA, gasoline prices have surged by more than 30% since the start of the conflict, reaching approximately $3.98 per gallon, the highest level since 2022.

Diesel prices have also jumped by more than 40% to around $5.37 per gallon, increasing pressure on transportation and supply chains, as diesel is widely used in trucking and freight rail.

In a related development, Chris Wright, the U.S. Energy Secretary, said the administration is working on plans to increase diesel supplies, noting that “additional steps may be taken soon” to boost availability.

The measures come amid widespread disruption in global energy markets, similar to the shock caused by the Russian invasion of Ukraine, which previously triggered record highs in fuel prices.