Us Congress Senate Bill SB1962

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/13/23
• Refer: 6/13/23

Caption

AAERO Act Advancing Aviation Emissions Reduction Opportunities Act

Impact

The implications of SB1962 on state laws involve potential changes to how aviation fuels are regulated and funded at both federal and state levels. The bill emphasizes federal support, with appropriations exceeding $700 million designated for various projects aimed at advancing SAF production technologies. In effect, this could incentivize states to align their regulatory frameworks with federal standards for green aviation fuel, driving a shift in local economic policies toward supporting clean energy in the aviation sector.

Summary

SB1962, also known as the Advancing Aviation Emissions Reduction Opportunities Act (AAERO Act), is aimed at enhancing the funding and opportunities for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production in the United States. The bill seeks to amend existing provisions to support capital expenditures for facilities utilizing scalable technologies in line with national long-term sustainability goals. As per the bill's provisions, sustainable aviation fuel is defined as liquid fuel that achieves a lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions reduction percentage of at least 50% compared to conventional aviation fuel, which is a critical factor as the aviation sector seeks to decrease its overall environmental impact.

Contention

Notably, there may be points of contention surrounding SB1962 regarding the balance of federal control over aviation fuel production versus state regulatory authority. Critics may argue that federal funding could prioritize certain technologies over others, hindering local innovations or smaller enterprises that do not meet federal guidelines for funding. Furthermore, the specificity of the standards required for sustainable aviation fuel could raise discussions on acceptable sources and methods of production, particularly concerning environmental justice and the economic viability of established industries within states that rely heavily on traditional aviation fuel sources.