LANSING, Mich. – Michigan farm and biofuel advocates urged swift action following a June 23 hearing of the Michigan Senate Agriculture Committee on legislation expanding access to lower-cost fuel blends produced with renewable energy from Michigan farms. Introduced by Sen. Kevin Daley (R-Lum), SB 814 would offer qualifying retailers a tax credit for every gallon sold of higher ethanol blends, including $0.05 per gallon of E15 and $0.085 per gallon of E85.

“Ethanol is one of the most important markets for Michigan-grown corn,” said Jeff Sandborn, a farmer from Portland, Mich., who testified on behalf of the Michigan Corn Growers Association. “Policies that increase the use of E15 and E85 help family farmers like me stay profitable while providing for cheaper, cleaner fuel for Michigan consumers. I appreciate Sen. Daley’s support of Michigan’s farmers and I hope that the legislature will move forward with this bill.”

Jane McCurry, executive director of Clean Fuels Michigan, said, “As we work toward a zero-emission transportation future, we cannot leave clean fuel solutions on the table. Increased E15 use creates good-paying blue-collar jobs in our communities. Passage of SB 814 will help add nearly $530 million to Michigan’s GDP and boost household income by $165 million. Clean Fuels Michigan urges the Senate Agriculture members to act quickly to move this bill out of committee.”

Bob Thompson, president of the Michigan Farmers Union, said, “The Michigan Farmers Union is proud to support Sen. Daley’s bill to boost Michigan biofuels and expand clean options at the pump. Expanded access to E15 in Michigan could drive millions in fuel savings, protect our climate, and expand opportunities for family farmers working to create energy security right here at home.”

Chuck Lippstreu, president of the Michigan Agri-Business Association, said, “The Michigan Agri-Business Association is happy to see the Senate Agriculture Committee take up Senate Bill 814. Approval of this legislation can provide relief for Michigan motorists facing skyrocketing costs at the pump and reduce our reliance on foreign oil. We encourage swift passage of SB 814 out of Committee and on to the Senate floor for a full vote.”

Additional supporters of the bill include Michigan Farm Bureau, POET, Growth Energy, and other leaders in clean energy and agriculture. Earlier this month, supporters sent a letter encouraging House and Senate leaders to move forward on the bill in light of surging gasoline costs amid Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.