U.S. Senator Joni Ernst and Representative Mariannette Miller-Meeks, both Republicans from Iowa, called on the Trump administration on Mar. 12 to ensure that the final rule for the 45Z clean fuel production credit supports a broad range of on-farm practices and prioritizes Iowa farmers.
The lawmakers said this action is important because previous guidance under the Biden administration did not provide enough clarity or certainty for biofuel producers and farmers in Iowa. They praised recent efforts by the Trump administration to develop new guidance through interagency collaboration.
“45Z was designed to add value to farmers’ crops and expand domestic production of clean, homegrown biofuels. Still, its success depends on clear, workable rules allowing farmers and biofuel producers to meaningfully participate—clarity the Biden administration repeatedly failed to provide,” wrote Ernst and Miller-Meeks. They added, “As this rule is finalized, it is critical the final rule clearly identifies the types of on-farm conservation practices capable of generating lower-carbon feedstocks and ultimately qualifying for a premium under 45Z. Examples of these practices include, but are not limited to no-till, cover crops, strip till, manure application, and optimized fertilizer use.”
The lawmakers concluded their letter by stating: “Delivering this outcome after years of mismanagement under the previous administration will be a clear win for U.S. farmers and demonstrate the Trump administration’s commitment to a stronger rural America.”
Ernst has played a role in introducing legislation such as the Farmer First Fuel Incentives Act, which extends the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit through 2029 as part of broader tax cuts now enacted into law. The act also removes certain environmental penalties against American farmers and ensures domestic feedstocks are prioritized for biofuel production.
According to the official website, Ernst’s office handles constituent services such as casework and facilitating interactions with federal agencies according to her office. She leads the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship while serving on several other committees including Armed Services; Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry; and Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs according to her office. Her representation covers all of Iowa according to her office, offering assistance with casework and responses to public inquiries according to her office. Ernst operates within the federal legislative branch as a senator from Iowa according to her office.
Ernst made history in 2014 when she became both the first woman from Iowa elected to serve in the U.S. Senate and its first female combat veteran according to her office.
Looking ahead, supporters say that finalizing clear rules for clean fuel credits could help strengthen rural economies by supporting local agriculture while advancing renewable energy goals.