Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress House Bill HB10252

Introduced
11/22/24  

Caption

Cleaner Biofuels Act of 2024

Impact

The bill mandates the EPA to establish supplemental Renewable Identification Numbers (RINs) for certain renewable fuels, particularly for those demonstrating significant lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions reductions. This measure promotes the use of advanced biofuels, potentially incentivizing producers to invest in technologies that diminish their environmental impact. By requiring the EPA to conduct annual assessments on greenhouse gas emissions reductions stemming from these changes, the bill aims to ensure accountability and transparency in the advancement of the Renewable Fuel Program, which could reshape the biofuel marketplace significantly.

Summary

House Bill 10252, known as the Cleaner Biofuels Act of 2024, aims to guide the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in amending regulations related to the Renewable Fuel Program. A significant provision of the legislation includes revisions to definitions of advanced biofuels, expanding eligibility criteria to incorporate ethanol derived from cornstarch. This adjustment seeks to streamline the regulatory process for biofuel production, fostering increased participation in renewable energy initiatives by broadening the types of biofuels recognized under existing laws.

Contention

While HB 10252 strives to enhance the promotion of renewable fuels, it faces contention concerning its effectiveness and potential for unintended consequences. Critics have raised concerns about whether the inclusive nature of the bill might dilute the strict standards previously applied to more environmentally friendly fuels. There is also apprehension regarding the EPA's capacity to properly assess and certify the new categories of fuels introduced by this legislation, which could lead to regulatory confusion and undermine the environmental goals associated with the Renewable Fuel Program.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

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