Sioux City Times

U.S. Representative Randy Feenstra has introduced the Comparison of Sustainable Transportation (COST) Act, aiming to evaluate the financial and environmental implications of transitioning the federal gasoline-powered vehicle fleet to either electric vehicles or E-85 capable flex fuel cars and trucks. This initiative requires the Comptroller General of the Government Accountability Office and the U.S. Secretary of Energy to conduct a comprehensive comparison, with findings reported to Congress.

Feenstra expressed his appreciation for former President Trump's termination of "the Biden administration’s radical electric-vehicle mandate," citing concerns about the expense and reliability of electric vehicles, particularly in rural areas. He also noted that components for EV batteries are primarily sourced from China, which he argues undermines U.S. economic interests.

"I introduced the COST Act to ensure that we consider the full financial and environmental costs of replacing the entire federal vehicle fleet with either electric vehicles or E-85 flex fuel cars and trucks," said Rep. Feenstra. He emphasized support for Iowa's farmers and biofuel producers by promoting flex fuel vehicles over foreign battery reliance.

Monte Shaw, Executive Director of the Iowa Renewable Fuels Association, supported Feenstra's bill, highlighting its potential to create a fair competition between low carbon biofuels and electric vehicles based on scientific evaluation. "Rep. Feenstra’s biofuels bill will help ensure the competition is on a level, scientifically-based playing field," Shaw stated.

Mark Mueller from the Iowa Corn Growers Association praised Feenstra's commitment to advancing Iowa's biofuel industry, stressing its importance for both consumers seeking affordable fuels and farmers needing increased corn demand.