Toward boosting the nation’s sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) industry, U.S. Sens. Jerry Moran (R-KS) and Joni Ernst (R-IA) on Feb. 2 unveiled a bipartisan bill to open new markets for farmers and lower emissions in the transportation sector.
Sen. Moran sponsored the Securing America’s Fuels (SAF) Act, S. 3759, alongside three original cosponsors, including Sen. Ernst and U.S. Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) to reinstate the SAF bonus credit that would allow qualifying SAF producers to receive up to $0.35 or $1.75 per gallon.
“Kansas has a long history as a leader in agriculture and aviation, and this legislation will strengthen these industries while bolstering U.S. energy innovation,” Sen. Moran said. “As a founding member of the Senate Sustainable Aviation Caucus, I am committed to supporting the sustainable fuels industry to bolster our aviation industry, open new markets for Kansas farmers and rural communities and promote American energy independence.”
If enacted, S. 3759 also would extend the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Tax Credit for all clean fuels through 2033, according to the bill’s text.
“I’m partnering with my colleagues on the Securing America’s Fuels Act to ensure that the aviation industry can fully unleash the potential of homegrown, sustainable biofuels,” said Sen. Ernst. “When SAF successfully takes off, we open up new markets for our farmers, create more energy independence, and support our national security.”
The bill has garnered support from numerous entities, including the Kansas Farm Bureau, the Kansas Soybean Association, the Renew Kansas Biofuels Association, the SAF Coalition, the Global Business Travel Association, and the Advanced Biofuels Association, among others.
“This bipartisan legislation incentivizes cleaner airplane fuel that will support a stronger aviation system and a healthier environment for future generations,” added Sen. Cortez Masto.
U.S. Reps. Sharice Davids (D-KS) and Tracey Mann (R-KS) introduced companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.