Little Apple Times

U.S. Representatives Tracey Mann (KS-01) and Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), along with Senators Roger Marshall (R-KS) and Sherrod Brown (D-OH), have introduced the Farmer First Fuel Incentives Act. This legislation aims to limit the Clean Fuel Production Credit (45Z) to domestically produced feedstocks and extend the credit until 2034.

Rep. Mann stated, "In no world should American tax incentives first benefit foreign producers," emphasizing that the bill ensures American tax credits support domestic products. Congresswoman Kaptur added, "We must ensure the Clean Fuel Production tax credit is structured in a way that benefits domestic producers, and not one that advantages foreign-produced feedstocks from China or Brazil."

Senator Marshall highlighted current economic challenges for farmers: "It's very tough in farm country with high interest rates and low commodity prices." He stressed that the legislation would prioritize American farmers as primary beneficiaries of renewable fuel tax incentives. Senator Brown echoed this sentiment, stating, "American tax dollars should support American farmers – not imported feedstocks."

The bill has garnered support from several co-sponsors including Representatives James Comer (KY-01), Nikki Budzinski (IL-13), Don Bacon (NE-02), and Senators Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Deb Fischer (R-NE), and Tammy Baldwin (D-WI).

Organizations such as Growth Energy, National Oilseed Processors Association, National Corn Growers Association, and others have endorsed the legislation. Ed Prosser of Scoular remarked on its importance: "Our farmers need policies that protect their ability to compete fairly as the United States strives to be a leader in renewable fuels markets." NOPA President Kailee Tkacz Buller also expressed support, noting significant investments made by U.S. fuel producers.

ASA President Josh Gackle emphasized the role of biofuel production in reducing greenhouse gas emissions while supporting the U.S. economy. Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor mentioned that extending the 45Z tax credit provides necessary certainty for farmers and bioethanol producers.

Other industry leaders like Adam York of Kansas Sorghum Producers, Harold Wolle of NCGA, Craig Meeker of National Sorghum Producers, and Kaleb Little of Kansas Soybean Association also voiced their approval for the act.

Earlier this month, Reps. Mann and Kaptur led a group urging the U.S. Department of Treasury to expedite final guidance for 45Z, with similar efforts led by Senators Marshall and Brown in the Senate.