Letter to Honorable Michael S. Regan, Administrator of U.S. Environmental Protection Agency - Rep. Johnson, Biofuels Caucus Urge EPA to Prioritize Biofuels

Letter

Dear Administrator Regan,
Congratulations on your recent confirmation to serve as Administrator of the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency. As members of the bipartisan House Biofuels Caucus, your work is of vital
importance to us. Our districts, and the many hard-working Americans that depend on a robust biofuels industry, play a key role in working to reduce carbon emissions, while keeping America moving.

As you know, biofuels are an integral part of sound environmental policy that serves to keep and create home-grown jobs, and generates demand for American farmers. A recent report found that greenhouse gas emissions from corn ethanol are 46% lower than gasoline. The role of biofuels provides a compelling story that must be utilized to achieve carbon emission reduction goals. Biofuels producers need to be included in any climate conversation, and rural America must not be left behind.

As Administrator, we urge you to maximize the benefits the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS), particularly given the statutory shift that requires you to determine Renewable Volumes Obligations starting in 2023 in consultation with the Secretary of Energy and the Secretary of Agriculture. We implore you to work across agencies to build on existing programs and policies and seek new opportunities that will promote growth in the usage of higher ethanol and biodiesel blends.

At your earliest convenience, the bipartisan House Biofuels Caucus would like to extend an invitation to meet with you to discuss these and other biofuels priorities.

Sincerely,