On Monday, U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran (R-KS) introduced legislation that would help accelerate the production of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) through U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) programs.
Moran joined U.S. Sens. Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) in introducing the Farm to Fly Act that would use existing USDA programs to support the development of SAF to allow for alternative fuel growth in the aviation sector. The bill is expected to create new markets for American farmers. Included in the legislation is language to clarify SAF definitions and to enable more collaboration between the USDA and the private sector.
“Sustainable aviation fuel is a promising alternative fuel source that can provide new markets for farmers while increasing our domestic energy production and security,” Moran said. “This legislation would increase the accessibility of biofuel for commercial use and directly support rural America and its farmers, the agriculture industry and the aviation sector.”
Companion legislation sponsored by U.S. Reps. Max Miller (R-Ohio), Nikki Budzinski (D-IL), Angie Craig (D-MN), Jasmine Crockett (D-Texas), Randy Feenstra (R-Iowa), Brad Finstad (D-MN), Mike Flood (R-NB), and Ashley Hinson (R-Iowa) was introduced in the House of Representatives, officials said.
The legislation also has support from aviation, agriculture and energy leaders, Moran’s office said, including the Kansas Corn Growers Association, National Sorghum Producers, Renewable Fuels Association, and Airlines for America.
“Increased partnership with the agriculture sector is imperative as the aviation industry works to increase production of cost-competitive sustainable aviation fuels. Airlines for America greatly appreciates Senators Moran, Klobuchar and Ernst’s leadership on this issue. This bill has a companion in the House, signaling the strong bipartisan, bicameral support for SAF development and expansion,” Airlines for America said in a statement.