CRA supports bill to expand bioproduct markets
The Corn Refiners Association (CRA) has voiced strong support for the bipartisan, bicameral Biomanufacturing and Jobs Act, recently reintroduced by US lawmakers. This legislation aims to boost America’s role in renewable, plant-based manufacturing while creating new markets for corn-based bioproducts and generating jobs in rural communities.
Led in the Senate by Joni Ernst, Elissa Slotkin, Amy Klobuchar, and Pete Ricketts, and in the House by Mark Alford, Angie Craig, Mark Messmer, and Kristen McDonald Rivet, the bill aligns with CRA’s Farm Bill priorities.
“The Corn Refiners Association is proud to support this legislative effort and looks forward to working with Congress, industry stakeholders, and rural leaders to ensure the continued advancement of the U.S. bioeconomy,” said John Bode, President and CEO of the Corn Refiners Association. “This legislation responds to growing consumer demand for American-made, corn-derived bioproducts. It’s a smart investment in manufacturing, rural economies, and our national competitiveness.”
The legislation strengthens USDA’s BioPreferred Program, which promotes renewable products made from US crops such as corn. It also updates federal procurement standards to encourage greater adoption of biobased products, expands training for procurement officials, and increases public awareness.
In addition, the bill calls for a national economic impact study to assess the bioeconomy’s growth potential and supports resilient domestic supply chains. These steps aim to create more opportunities for corn refiners and help the US remain a global leader in biobased manufacturing.
By updating key USDA programs and encouraging wider use of renewable products, the Biomanufacturing and Jobs Act is set to support sustainable technologies, enhance rural prosperity, and strengthen America’s manufacturing base.
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