Indiana farmers would benefit from the Next Generation Fuels Act

The Next Generation Fuels Act (H.R. 5089) was recently reintroduced in the U.S. House of Representatives. It has been a long process with input from farmers, ethanol producers, automakers, members of Congress and other stakeholders, but corn growers are ready to go on offense and provide a cleaner more efficient fuel. This legislation would require automakers to phase in higher levels of clean, low-carbon octane by model year 2031. As a clean octane standard, the bill requires that sources of additional octane result in at least 40 percent fewer greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions than unblended gasoline and sets new limits on toxic hydrocarbon aromatics. Through advanced engine design features that take advantage of this new fuel, automakers will be able to significantly improve vehicle fuel efficiency.

Why do farmers care? Because our corn ethanol is the most effective, low-carbon octane source, providing the greatest fuel efficiency gains at the least cost to drivers while displacing the most toxic components of gasoline. Higher octane levels and vehicles designed and warranted for these fuels would support ethanol blends up to 30 percent, which would decrease GHG emissions and improve air quality by replacing the most harmful gasoline components.

The increased demand for ethanol will not only help the environment, it will also greatly benefit Indiana corn growers and their communities. But if the bill is to gain traction, NCGA and state corn grower associations need to work together to build support in the U.S. House of Representatives. We appreciate Rep. Jim Baird (R-Indiana District 4) for signing on as an early cosponsor of the bill, but we’re asking more Indiana representatives to follow suit.

The Next Generation Fuels Act will reduce emissions, save consumers money at the pump and help rural economies. Farmers are key to helping Members of Congress understand the many benefits of today’s ethanol and how the Next Generation Fuels Act can help accomplish their energy, economic and environmental goals.

As always, Congress has a full plate of pressing issues, and farmers also have multiple priorities in Washington. That is why I encourage you to reach out to your Representative about the importance of this bill and explain how corn ethanol is uniquely positioned to immediately and affordably improve transportation, paving the way to future vehicles with greater fuel efficiency and fewer emissions.

Tell your member of Congress that the Renewable Fuel Standard was a game-changer for corn farmers, and the Next Generation Fuels Act builds on that success in advancing our commitment to providing the cleanest, most efficient and lowest cost energy solution. Simply put, Next Generation Fuels Act provides the solutions we need now.

Corn growers offer a product that can address pressing environmental issues while helping farmers and rural communities. We need members of Congress to recognize this resource, and we need you to make sure they do just that. You can visit our website at www.ncga.com for more information.