(NAFB.com) – Jed Bower, a fifth-generation corn and soybean farmer from Ohio, began his term this week as president of the National Corn Growers Association, saying the challenging rural economy will be his top priority in the year ahead. “We need new markets to help alleviate the economic crisis that’s threatening the survival of countless family farms across the country,” Bower said. “That’s why we will continue to encourage Congress to act immediately to pass legislation that expands consumer access to higher blends of ethanol year-round and urge the Trump administration to move quickly to develop new foreign markets.” Grower leaders have ramped up pressure on Congress to pass the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act of 2025, which would eliminate a dated clause in the Clean Air Act that prevents the sale of E15 during the summer months. Growers argue this change would provide more predictability and boost demand for corn.