One of the major impacts of HB 9787 will be its influence on the agricultural market by incentivizing the growth and production of feedstocks within the United States. By shifting the focus towards domestic feedstocks, the bill is intended to foster a stronger agricultural economy and reduce dependence on foreign agricultural imports. Furthermore, this aligns with broader national interests in increasing energy independence and supporting local farming communities. Additionally, it extends the clean fuel production credit until December 31, 2034, which could lead to long-term investments in renewable energy sources.
Summary
House Bill 9787, known as the 'Farmer First Fuel Incentives Act', seeks to amend the Internal Revenue Code by prohibiting the use of foreign feedstocks in the production of clean fuel. This legislation is aimed at promoting domestic agricultural production and ensuring that the benefits of clean fuel production credits are directed towards fuels derived from domestically grown feedstocks. The bill proposes an effective date for this prohibition which will take place for transportation fuel sold after December 31, 2024.
Contention
While supporters of HB 9787 argue that it is a necessary step to bolster domestic agriculture and promote energy independence, there are potential points of contention. Some may raise concerns about the feasibility of domestic production to meet the clean fuel demands, particularly if certain feedstocks cannot be sourced in sufficient quantities domestically. Moreover, stakeholders in the energy market may oppose the prohibition on foreign feedstocks as it could lead to increased costs and could potentially limit the diversity of fuel options available in the market. Such restrictions may be seen as hindrances to innovation and competitiveness in the clean fuel sector.
Farm to Fly Act of 2025This bill directs the Department of Agriculture (USDA) to integrate the advancement of sustainable aviation fuels into its programs.Specifically, this bill includes sustainable aviation fuel as an advanced biofuel for the purposes of several USDA bioenergy programs that primarily provide support and incentives for renewable energy projects.For purposes of these programs, the bill defines sustainable aviation fuel as liquid fuel, the portion of which is not kerosene, which (1) meets specific international standards, (2) is not derived from coprocessing specific materials (e.g., triglycerides) with a non-biomass feedstock, (3) is not derived from palm fatty acid distillates or petroleum, and (4) is certified as having a lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions reduction percentage of at least 50% compared with petroleum-based jet fuel (based on specific standards and agreements).In addition, the bill specifically includes fostering and advancing sustainable aviation fuels as part of the Biorefinery, Renewable Chemical, and Biobased Product Manufacturing Assistance Program.Further, USDA must carry out a comprehensive and integrated pursuit of all USDA mission areas for the advancement of sustainable aviation fuels, including throughthe identification of opportunities to maximize the development and commercialization of the fuels,supporting rural economic development through improved sustainability for aviation, andadvancing public-private partnerships.