A bipartisan bill passed in 2022 to promote the use of higher biodiesel blends is making a significant impact once again in 2025. Effective today, April 1, biodiesel blend requirements will increase from B14 to B17, marking another step toward advancing cleaner fuel options.

Illinois Soybean Association Chairman and Illinois soybean farmer Ron Kindred is proud to see the continuation of efforts that support our state’s farmers. “Increasing biodiesel blend rates is a win for farmers, consumers and the environment,” said Kindred. “Every step forward strengthens our energy security, drives demand for homegrown feedstocks, and supports rural economies.”

ISA extends its thanks to the key leaders behind the B20 Bill, including primary sponsors Rep. Eva Dina Delgado (D-Chicago) and Sen. Patrick Joyce (D-Kankakee), co-chairs of the Illinois Sustainable Fuels Caucus. ISA also appreciates the support of the bill’s lead Republican sponsor Rep. Charlie Meier (R-Okawville) and Governor JB Pritzker for signing the bill into law.

The B20 bill raises the bar on biodiesel use by increasing the minimum biodiesel blend level eligible for tax exemption. Starting today, the eligible fuel mixture will jump from the current B14 to B17. This means 17% of every gallon of biodiesel sold in Illinois between Apr. 1 and Nov. 30 will be derived largely from domestically produced, renewable vegetable oil, with soybeans being the top contributor by far.

The impact of increased biodiesel adoption in Illinois has already been significant. After the first phase of implementation, 97% of diesel gallons across the state contained at least 11% biodiesel, with half of all gallons exceeding 14%.

In 2026, the minimum biodiesel blend levels eligible for a tax exemption jump to 20%. Biodiesel is a cleaner-burning alternative to traditional diesel, significantly improving air quality and mitigating the impact of transportation-related greenhouse gases.

For information about B20 use in Illinois, visit https://www.ilsoy.org/b20-club/ to learn more about the B20 Club, a partnership between ISA and the American Lung Association that recognizes Illinois-based organizations that fuel their fleets with biodiesel blends of 20 percent or greater.