ethanol

In the U.S. and Europe, biofuel mandates are resulting and environmental destruction and failing to meet targets for production.

Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump don’t agree on much, but they see eye-to-eye on the Renewable Fuel Standard. Too bad they’re both wrong.

John and Donny continue their weekly exploration of think tanks across the country in episode #54 of the In The Tank Podcast. Today’s podcast features work from the American Federation for Children, the Yankee Institute, and the Competitive Enterprise Institute.

The Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS)—also known as the ethanol mandate—was passed by Congress in 2005 and expanded in 2007. Regardless of market conditions, it required ever-increasing quantities of biofuel be blended into the nation’s gasoline supply—though the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) does have the flexibility to make some adjustments based on conditions, such as availability and infrastructure.

Terry Branstad was first elected governor of Iowa in 1982. His six terms in office have made him the longest serving governor in American history and the most influential politician in the state. He rarely takes sides in the Republican caucuses and hasn’t endorsed a primary presidential candidate since 1996.

The Department of Energy announced state revenue from severance taxes dropped as the price of crude oil falls below $30 per bushel. The following charts show tax revenue for 6 states.