Farmer First Fuel Act Boosts Bioenergy
The Farmer First Fuel Incentive Act has been introduced by U.S. Senators Roger “Doc” Marshall and Amy Klobuchar. This bipartisan legislation aims to strengthen American agriculture by promoting the production of biofuels such as jet fuel and ethanol using crops like soybeans, corn, and sorghum.
Senator Marshall highlights the significant opportunity this bill presents. Turning soybean oil into jet fuel could become one of the largest markets for farmers, with demand high enough to require four times the current U.S. soybean crop.
The Act also supports farmers using precision agriculture to grow corn or sorghum for ethanol production. A key feature of the legislation is the 45Z tax credit, which would provide farmers and fuel producers with ten years of financial certainty, unlike previous short-term benefits.
Another important element of the bill is the restriction on foreign-grown feedstocks, such as imported used cooking oil. This ensures that only American-grown crops are used in the supported biofuel programs.
Although similar legislation failed in the last Congressional session, Senator Marshall is hopeful about its success this time. He mentions growing bipartisan support and interest from both the House and Senate agriculture committees.
The bill could be included in broader legislation like a farm bill or a reconciliation bill. Senator Marshall has discussed the plan with Secretary of Agriculture Rollins and Treasury Secretary Bessent, indicating strong coordination and support.
Additionally, Marshall supports expanding E15 ethanol blends nationwide, which could help consume much of the corn currently exported by the U.S.
Photo Credit: biofuel1-photo-credit-vista-mipan