Soybean Farmers Anxious Over Rural Council Evaluation
Recent developments concerning the evaluation of the E15 Rural Domestic Energy Council have raised concerns among soybean farmers. Scott Metzger, President of the American Soybean Association (ASA), expressed appreciation for the ongoing efforts of the House of Representatives in supporting biofuel production.
Soybean Farmers Express Concerns Over E15 Council Evaluation
Despite the ASA’s support for year-round E15 sales, Metzger highlighted potential risks associated with the council’s expanded authority. He warned that this could jeopardize the policies essential for U.S. soybean farmers, particularly those that foster the growth of soy-based fuels.
Key Statements from Scott Metzger
- “The broad latitude provided to the E15 Rural Domestic Energy Council creates new threats to programs U.S. soybean farmers rely on.”
- “We must guard against efforts that seek to weaken the Renewable Fuel Standard.”
- “The open-ended directives of this council create a dangerous precedent for the U.S. biofuel industry.”
Metzger, who farms in Ohio, underscored the importance of maintaining established bipartisan policies that have historically bolstered the production and consumption of biodiesel and renewable diesel derived from soybeans. He urged Congress and the council to focus on policies that have a history of success.
Call for Legislative Action
Instead of diverting attention to the council’s evaluations, Metzger advocates for Congress to expedite legislative actions. This includes finalizing:
- 45Z tax guidance
- Robust Renewable Volume Obligations (RVOs)
- EPA’s proposed rule prioritizing domestic feedstocks and fuels
The ASA emphasizes that any delays in enacting these crucial policies could undermine the progress made over the past 25 years in the biofuel sector. The focus should remain on promoting solutions that uphold and further strengthen the U.S. biofuel industry, ensuring stability for soybean farmers nationwide.
