Starting May 1, Florida will allow gas stations to sell winter-grade gasoline for 90 days, aiming to drive down prices at the pump. This emergency move comes as fuel costs top $4 a gallon, mainly because of international supply problems. The state hopes that by letting retailers offer winter-blend fuel, including E15 with 15% ethanol, drivers will see some relief as summer travel picks up and demand spikes.
Normally, stations can’t sell winter-grade fuel in the warmer months because it’s more volatile and can lead to extra smog and pollution in hot weather. But making winter gas is cheaper, so the state thinks the immediate benefit to consumers, more supply, lower prices, outweighs the environmental risk during this 90-day window.
To increase supply and stabilize prices during the busy summer, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services issued this waiver. The order takes effect for 90 days, starting in May 2026, and covers both winter-grade gasoline and E15 blends. The focus is simple: curb the impact of global oil disruptions and give Floridians some breathing room at the pump.
