By Jamie Martin
The bipartisan Farmer First Fuel Incentive Act was recently introduced by Senators Roger Marshall of Kansas and Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota. The bill supports American farmers by encouraging the use of soybean oil and other crops in biofuel production, especially jet fuel.
Senator Marshall stated that making jet fuel from soybeans could create a massive market opportunity for U.S. agriculture. It would take nearly four times the current soybean crop if all jet fuel came from soybeans.
In addition to soybeans, farmers growing corn or sorghum using precision agriculture techniques would also benefit, as these crops can be used to produce ethanol.
The bill’s key feature is the 45Z tax credit, which would provide a stable ten-year support period—far more than the usual two years. This long-term certainty is expected to encourage more farmers and fuel producers to invest in biofuel development.
A unique aspect of this legislation is the exclusion of foreign feedstocks, such as imported used cooking oil. This clause ensures that only U.S.-grown materials are eligible for the program, strengthening local farming and clean energy efforts.
Senator Marshall said the previous version of this bill did not pass, but it now has wider support from both Democratic and Republican lawmakers. He is optimistic that it could be included in the upcoming farm or reconciliation bill.
Marshall has discussed the plan with Secretary Rollins of the Agriculture Department and Treasury Secretary Bessent, showing strong government coordination.
He also wants E15 ethanol blends available across the U.S., which could help use up to 80% of the corn now being exported.
Photo Credit: vista-mipan
Categories: National