Sioux City Times

U.S. Representative Randy Feenstra and his colleagues on the House Ways and Means Committee have issued a request for information from stakeholders regarding biofuel tax policy. This initiative follows significant changes made to the policy in 2022 under Public Law 117-169, which were enacted without Republican input.

The committee is seeking feedback to improve these provisions in support of domestic energy production and rural economic development. The Supply Chains and Rural America Tax Teams are leading this effort, following a previous submission deadline on October 15th.

Rep. Feenstra emphasized the importance of biofuels as an economic driver in Iowa and across the Midwest. He stated, “Biofuels are a major economic engine in Iowa and across the Midwest, and our tax policies should help this important industry to Rural America thrive.” He expressed the need for flexibility in agricultural practices to qualify for clean-fuel production tax credits.

Rep. Adrian Smith criticized the Biden administration's handling of biofuel standards, saying, “Unfortunately, the Biden administration’s refusal to provide timely guidance and its track record of creating unworkable and out-of-touch standards reflects an ignorance of the biofuels marketplace.”

Rep. Michelle Fischbach highlighted her role in representing biofuel producers in Minnesota, noting that previous changes left stakeholders with challenging regulations. She stated, “Our rural communities deserve a meaningful seat at the table when Congress makes discussions that directly impact them.”

Rep. Carol Miller expressed concern over stakeholder exclusion during past legislative processes: “Once again, the Democrat elites have ignored the American people.” She affirmed her commitment to understanding real-world impacts through stakeholder engagement.

Rep. Darin LaHood underscored biofuels' significance for farmers in Illinois’ 16th Congressional District: “We must continue to support biofuels as part of our solution to restoring America’s energy independence.”

Lastly, Rep. Claudia Tenney reaffirmed their dedication to enhancing domestic energy production: “Ways and Means Republicans are soliciting input from key stakeholders across various sectors of our economy on how to support our nation’s emerging biofuel and clean fuel production industry.”

The request for information is available online.