Core Viewpoint - The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has proposed a plan to redistribute the small refinery exemption (SRE) obligations for biofuel blending to larger refineries, offering options of 50% and 100% redistribution, while also seeking public input on other potential ratios [1][2] Group 1: Proposal Details - The EPA's proposal includes a public comment period of 45 days, which is considered crucial by industry officials [1] - The biofuel industry advocates for a full 100% redistribution to maintain demand for products like corn ethanol, while refiners oppose this, citing increased costs [1] - The proposal is seen as a "stalling tactic" by some industry officials, indicating a lack of substantial progress [1] Group 2: Background Information - According to the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS), refineries are required to blend billions of gallons of biofuels annually or purchase renewable identification numbers (RINs) from compliant entities [1] - Small refineries can apply for SRE exemptions if they demonstrate that blending requirements would cause financial hardship [1] - The EPA cleared over 170 SRE exemption applications from 2016, necessitating a compensation plan for the obligations [2] - The total amount of exemptions from 2023 to 2025 is equivalent to 2.18 billion RINs [2]