Trump moves to relax summer gasoline restrictions to cut fuel prices as Iran war drives global energy costs upward.
The administration of Donald Trump is expected to announce as early as Wednesday a temporary suspension of federal smog-cutting restrictions on summer-blend gasoline as part of efforts to ease rising energy prices linked to the ongoing Iran conflict, according to sources familiar with the discussions.
The move would allow refiners and fuel retailers to bypass the transition to more expensive summer gasoline blends, which are typically mandated during warmer months to reduce air pollution. It would also permit the continued sale of gasoline containing 15% ethanol, known as E15, throughout the summer driving season, when stricter environmental rules usually limit its distribution across much of the United States.
Analysts say the adjustment could lower retail fuel prices by several cents per gallon, offering relief to consumers and easing pressure on refiners grappling with tight supply conditions. According to data from AAA, the average price of a gallon of regular gasoline in the United States has recently risen above $3.97, marking a sharp increase from levels below $3 earlier in the year.
Under standard regulations overseen by the United States Environmental Protection Agency, the U.S. switches to summer gasoline blends designed to reduce emissions. These blends have lower volatility, which helps limit evaporation and curb the formation of smog during hotter weather.
The surge in oil and gasoline prices has been driven in part by supply disruptions tied to tensions involving Iran, with US crude oil prices climbing above $100 per barrel for the first time since the 2022 Russia-Ukraine war shock.
In a statement, the EPA said it has been working to support domestic energy production while closely monitoring fuel supply in coordination with industry stakeholders and federal partners.
The anticipated policy shift forms part of a broader push by the White House to contain the economic and political fallout from rising energy costs as the peak summer travel season approaches.
