Assemblymember Rhodesia Ransom Introduces Bill that Gives Access to Cheaper Gasoline

Sacramento, CA- Assemblymember Rhodesia Ransom yesterday introduced AB 2046, Access to Affordable Gas, legislation that would allow California drivers to legally install federally approved E85 conversion kits and gain access to a lower-cost gasoline option already available in the rest of the country.

"Families across California are asking what we are doing about the price of gas. My bill, AB 2046, answers that question with a solution. California is the only state in the nation denying drivers access to this more affordable gasoline option, and with AB 2046, drivers across the state will have an opportunity to access E85 conversion kits for a more affordable choice at the pump."

- Assemblymember Rhodesia Ransom

California is currently the only state where drivers cannot install conversion kits that enable standard gasoline vehicles to run on E85, a gasoline blend containing up to 85 percent ethanol. Under current law, aftermarket parts that modify a vehicle's fuel system require approval from the California Air Resources Board (CARB), and no E85 conversion kits have received that approval. In a recent letter to the Legislature, the California Air Resources Board acknowledged that E85 conversion kits have the potential to deliver cost savings for drivers.

With gasoline prices among the highest in the nation, AB 2046 is designed to expand consumer choice and lower costs at the pump. E85 fuel typically sells for $1.50 to $2.00 less per gallon than conventional gasoline in California, offering significant potential savings for commuters and working families.

E85 is widely used across the United States in flex-fuel vehicles. While some automakers manufacture flex-fuel models, most vehicles on the road today are not equipped to use E85 without a conversion kit. AB 2046 does not mandate any changes for drivers or manufacturers. It allows voluntary installation of EPA-approved kits so drivers can choose the gasoline that best fits their budget. Once installed, drivers can switch between regular gasoline and E85 whenever they choose.

"E85, a high-ethanol fuel blend, is typically priced about $1.50 to $2.00 per gallon lower than conventional gasoline in California, delivering meaningful relief for consumers at the pump, especially during periods of price spikes," said Alessandra Magnasco, California Fuels and Convenience Alliance. "When gasoline prices surge, having access to E85 provides drivers with a practical and immediate escape valve. With approximately 625 E85 fueling stations now operating across California, consumers have more options than ever before. We thank Assemblymember Ransom for being a leader on this critical issue and for supporting policies that expand fuel choice and affordability for California drivers."

"We applaud Assemblymember Ransom and her coauthors for introducing legislation that can meaningfully reduce costs for California drivers," said Jeff Wilkerson, Pearson Fuels. "This bill is a measurable step that gives more consumers the option to use cleaner, more affordable fuel-especially as the state loses refining capacity."

The bill will be eligible for a policy hearing in March or April of the 2026 legislative session.