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Farm to Fly Act of 2023
3/18/2024, 10:26 PM
Summary of Bill HR 6271
Under the Farm to Fly Act, the Department of Agriculture would be tasked with providing grants and loan guarantees to farmers and biofuel producers to support the development and production of sustainable aviation fuels. The bill also includes provisions for research and development funding to improve the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of biofuel production processes.
Additionally, the Farm to Fly Act seeks to increase the use of sustainable aviation fuels in the commercial aviation industry by establishing a Renewable Fuel Standard for aviation fuels. This standard would require airlines to gradually increase the percentage of biofuels in their fuel blends over time. Overall, the Farm to Fly Act of 2023 aims to reduce the environmental impact of the aviation industry by promoting the use of sustainable biofuels derived from agricultural feedstocks. The bill represents a bipartisan effort to address climate change and promote sustainable agriculture practices in the United States.
Congressional Summary of HR 6271
Farm to Fly Act of 2023
This 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 through
- the identification of opportunities to maximize the development and commercialization of the fuels,
- supporting rural economic development through improved sustainability for aviation, and
- advancing public-private partnerships.
