WASHINGTON -- Senator Grassley said that important testimony was given this morning in Washington in support of advanced biofuels.
A cellulosic ethanol plant under construction in Nevada, Iowa, was featured in testimony from DuPont Industrial Biosciences. The role domestically produced, advanced biofuels play in creating jobs and strengthening the rural economy was also supported in testimony from NASCAR’s Richard Childress.
Grassley welcomed Richard Childress’ testimony at today’s hearing of the Senate Agriculture Committee.
“Advanced biofuels are on the move despite many obstacles,” Grassley said.
Last fall, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sent a wave of uncertainty through the industry when the agency released its proposal to greatly reduce the renewable volume obligations for 2014. The EPA proposal would whittle down the volume targets for advanced biofuels from 3.25 billion gallons to 2.2 billion gallons for fiscal year 2014.
“Ethanol, biodiesel and other advanced biofuels offer the United States great opportunity,” Grassley said. “Homegrown biofuels have been a catalyst for economic development in rural America. That’s why it’s so frustrating that the EPA is taking actions that are scaring off future investments in this promising industry.”
Grassley was a key supporter in creating the Renewable Fuel Standard in legislation enacted in 2005 and expanded in 2007. As a legislative leader for tax policy, Grassley also worked to extend incentives for cellulosic ethanol production.
“The EPA's actions, from the RFS to the recent proposed rules claiming jurisdiction on nearly all waters, including creeks with no water, have a very negative impact on rural America,” Grassley said. “The hearing today sends a clear message to the EPA and others about the benefits of advanced biofuels for Americans nationwide, from jobs to energy security, to environmental impact.”
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