Us Congress House Bill HB2517

Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/31/25
• Refer: 3/31/25

Caption

Community Wood Facilities Assistance Act of 2025

Impact

By amending existing laws, HB2517 will not only provide increased funding but also change the eligibility requirements for certain projects. The bill emphasizes processing and manufacturing of biomass, particularly focusing on expanding capabilities for forest product manufacturing. This shift aims to bolster the local economy and support industries involved in sustainable forestry practices. It underscores the importance of community wood facilities in achieving environmental objectives, potentially contributing to climate change mitigation by promoting renewable energy sourced from biomass.

Summary

House Bill 2517, titled the Community Wood Facilities Assistance Act of 2025, aims to enhance support for community wood facilities by modifying the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002. The bill proposes to expand financial assistance through a grant program specifically directed to improve infrastructure and operational capacities of these facilities. One significant amendment includes increasing the maximum amount of grants from $1.5 million to $5 million, allowing for larger projects that can significantly impact local economies and renewable energy production.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support due to its potential economic benefits, there are concerns regarding the allocation of such substantial funding. Critics of the bill might argue that increased funding could lead to less oversight and accountability in the use of grants. Additionally, there may be opposition from stakeholders in other energy sectors who feel that prioritizing biomass facilities could divert resources and attention away from other forms of renewable energy. Balancing state resources while ensuring equitable development across different sectors remains a notable point of contention.

Congress_id

119-HR-2517

Introduced_date

2025-03-31