Friday at the National Ethanol Conference a study was released by the Renewable Fuels Association showing a nearly $ 53 billion impact to America’s gross domestic product from ethanol. American Coalition for Ethanol Senior Vice President Ron Lamberty says the study results are particularly meaningful for the U.S. economy in that ethanol production has led to just under 84,000 direct jobs.

Lamberty says the study also showed major benefits to investors in ethanol plants that stay in the United States and benefit local economies.

Lamberty says one of the main conclusions from the study is that the ethanol industry has been a good thing and that the Renewable Fuel Standard needs to stay in place.