Gas price twist: Emergency E15 waiver could change what you pay at the pump

US gas price relief measures explained: With gas prices nearing $4 per gallon, the focus is shifting to what relief drivers can expect. The Trump administration’s latest move, temporarily allowing more ethanol-blended fuel, aims to ease some of that pressure, but expectations remain mixed, as per a report.

What Is the E15 Fuel Waiver and When Does It Start

Starting May 1, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will permit the sale of E15, a gasoline blend with 15% ethanol, during a time when it’s usually restricted in many parts of the country due to air pollution rules, as per a Newsweek report.

The waiver will run through May 20 and could be extended if prices continue to climb. The EPA has removed federal barriers to E10 sales nationwide, expanding available fuel options.

How the Middle East Conflict Is Impacting Oil Prices

The decision comes as global energy markets remain under strain. The ongoing Middle East conflict has disrupted oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz, pushing crude prices above $100 per barrel. That surge has quickly translated into higher costs at the pump.

How Much Are Americans Paying for Gas in 2026

As of March 26, the national average gas price stood at $3.981 per gallon, up sharply from $2.983 just a month earlier.

For households, the impact is already being felt. A recent study by Stanford University researchers estimates the typical US family will pay an extra $68 this month due to higher gas prices, with total additional costs reaching about $740 over the rest of the year, as reported by Newsweek.

Will the E15 Waiver Actually Lower Gas Prices

While the E15 waiver is meant to offer some relief, experts suggest its effect could be limited. The fuel will be available at fewer than 5% of stations and is expected to be only slightly cheaper than regular gasoline.

Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy, explained that, it “will have virtually no impact on regular gas prices, but it will make a slightly cheaper product [E15] available at some pumps,” and will affect fewer than 5 percent of stations in the country, and “it could have a small adverse effect with more ethanol demand,” as quoted by Newsweek.

What Lawmakers Say About Gas Price Relief Measures

Sen. John Thune of South Dakota pointed out that, “Today Americans can fill up with summertime E15 fuel, which saves almost $.60/gallon. This will help ease pain at the pump, but it can’t replace the need to address global oil supply and get U.S. production back in the game,” as quoted by Newsweek.

Steps Taken to Control Rising Fuel Costs

Other steps have also been introduced, including releasing 172 million barrels from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, temporarily waiving the Jones Act to allow foreign ships to transport fuel within the US, and approving the purchase of Russian oil already at sea.

FAQs

What is E15 fuel?
It’s gasoline blended with 15% ethanol, now temporarily allowed for summer sale.

When will the E15 waiver start?
It begins on May 1 and is set to last through May 20.