If enacted, SB3637 would recognize sustainable aviation fuels as a critical component of the United States' energy strategy. The bill outlines how these fuels can create new markets for farmers and increase their opportunities, aligning agricultural outputs with the aviation sector's need for cleaner energy sources. Furthermore, the legislation includes provisions for the Secretary of Agriculture to implement initiatives that foster collaboration between federal and private entities, ensuring a comprehensive approach to developing this emerging market.
Summary
SB3637, also known as the 'Farm to Fly Act of 2024', aims to amend the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 to incorporate definitions related to biofuels and sustainable aviation fuels. The legislation emphasizes the importance of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) in enhancing domestic energy security and supports the agricultural sector's role in the production of these fuels. The act intends to foster alternative biofuels within the Department of Agriculture's bio-energy programs, thereby expanding the fuel supply and promoting clean energy sources alongside supporting U.S. agriculture.
Contention
Notable discussions surrounding SB3637 focus on the definitions and criteria for sustainable aviation fuels, which have been stipulated to ensure they meet specific environmental standards, such as a lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions reduction of at least 50% compared to conventional aviation fuels. This aligns with ongoing debates about the sustainability of biofuels, particularly concerns about feedstock sourcing and land use changes. Critics may argue that the bill could disproportionately benefit large agricultural producers while not addressing the potential environmental impacts or ensuring equitable access for smaller farms.
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.
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.