Kim Reynolds became Governor of Iowa on Wednesday taking over for Terry Branstad who’s leaving to serve as U.S. Ambassador to China. Reynolds who served as Lt. Governor under Branstad in her inaugural address listed innovating the state’s energy policy among her top priorities. Iowa Renewable Fuels Association Executive Director Monte Shaw says his group is anxious to work with Governor Reynolds on getting higher ethanol blends out to consumers.

He says it’ll be challenging to get that accomplished but looks forward to teaming with Governor Reynolds in getting that done.

Shaw says Reynolds like Branstad was supportive in the past of biofuel tax credits that has helped boost renewable fuels in Iowa.

Shaw says Reynolds understands the impact renewable fuels have on the rural economy and on the state of Iowa in general.