By Peter Rice

HASTINGS, Neb. — Nebraska agriculture leaders are pushing for expanded ethanol sales as farmers continue to face economic pressure.

Agriculture leaders gathered in Hastings Wednesday for a roundtable hosted by Chief Ethanol, joined by U.S. Sen. Pete Ricketts and U.S. Rep. Adrian Smith.

The discussion focused on efforts to allow year-round sales of E15 fuel, which supporters say would expand markets for corn growers.

Ricketts said farmers would prefer market opportunities over federal aid.

“If the government isn't keen on providing supplemental aid packages to our farmers, which our farmers would rather not have either, they would rather earn their money in the marketplace,” he said. “Getting E15 all year round is about how we continue to achieve American energy dominance, and it allows the marketplace to take care of our farmers.”

The Senator added that a working group in the House is reviewing the measure and that discussions are also ongoing in the Senate.

“We’ll need to find something to attach it to or pass it standalone,” said Ricketts, noting that President Trump has indicated he would sign the legislation if it reaches his desk.

Lawmakers stressed the urgency of the issue as corn and soybean farmers face continuing economic challenges.

Ricketts said the roundtable provided an opportunity to hear directly from industry experts and bring their feedback back to Washington.

“Our farmers want the ability to earn their money in the marketplace,” he said