H.R. 1719: Farm to Fly Act of 2025

The bill, known as the Farm to Fly Act of 2025, aims to amend the existing Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 to enhance the utilization of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) in the United States. The key objectives and components of this legislation include:

Goals of the Bill

The primary aims of the Farm to Fly Act are to:

1. Facilitate access to sustainable aviation fuels within Department of Agriculture bioenergy programs.
2. Support the agricultural sector’s involvement in the production of sustainable aviation fuels as part of a clean energy initiative.

Findings of Congress

Congress highlights several points regarding the importance of sustainable aviation fuels:

• They can enhance domestic energy security and stimulate the agricultural sector’s economy.
• They provide a partnership opportunity between the aviation and agricultural sectors to support rural development.
• Identified feedstocks for sustainable aviation fuels are abundant and environmentally sustainable.
• Sustainable aviation fuels can create new markets for U.S. farmers while providing a vital energy resource for aviation.

Definitions

The bill amends the definitions within the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act to include sustainable aviation fuels. Key aspects include:

• Sustainable aviation fuel is defined as a liquid fuel, meeting specific standards, which reduces lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions by at least 50% compared to traditional jet fuel.
• The fuel cannot be derived from palm fatty acid distillates or petroleum.

Farm to Fly Collaboration Initiative

The bill mandates that the Secretary of Agriculture execute a comprehensive effort to promote sustainable aviation fuels through actions like:

• Ensuring effective coordination across Department of Agriculture agencies.
• Identifying opportunities for the development and commercialization of sustainable aviation fuels.
• Leveraging the capabilities of the agricultural sector to benefit from the emerging market.
• Supporting rural economic growth through sustainable practices in aviation.
• Creating partnerships between the public and private sectors to advance these goals.

Biorefinery and Manufacturing Assistance

The bill also expands the provisions related to biorefineries and renewable chemical manufacturing to include the advancement of sustainable aviation fuels. This includes:

• Adding specific language to ensure support for sustainable aviation fuel initiatives within existing biofuel programs.

Impact on the Agricultural Sector

The legislation is designed to foster the growth of the sustainable aviation fuel market, allowing U.S. farmers and the agricultural sector to participate actively in this emerging economic opportunity. It aims to link agricultural production to energy needs in aviation, ultimately supporting rural economies.

Relevant Companies

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