SIOUX FALLS, SD (June 18) – This week Senator John Thune (R-SD) and Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) introduced critical, bipartisan legislation to uphold the intent of the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) by addressing delays in the approval of cellulosic biofuel applications stalled at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Cellulosic biofuel creates new market opportunities for farmers by producing ethanol from corn kernel fiber and crop residue and is an important alternative to fossil fuels that can have a significant impact on air quality and human health in our nation’s cities.

Blocking pathways that have already been recognized and approved at the state level is just one more way that the EPA is caving to big oil and hurting rural communities, which have already been hard hit by COVID-19, trade wars, and federal policy challenges.

“We applaud the leadership of Senators Thune and Shaheen in crafting a solution to jumpstart approval of proven cellulosic technology that has been blocked by EPA leaders, who are once again mismanaging the RFS. By streamlining approval, this bill will drive demand for cleaner-burning biofuel, improve human health, and support our rural economies” said POET Founder and CEO, Jeff Broin.

About POET
POET, headquartered in Sioux Falls, SD, is the world’s largest biofuels producer. POET is a leader in biorefining through its efficient, vertically integrated approach to production. Started in 1987, the company today has a network of 28 production facilities across 7 states. At full run rates, POET purchases 5% of US corn and produces 2 billion gallons of ethanol, 10 billion pounds of distillers dried grains, and 600 million pounds of corn oil annually. In 2019, Fast Company recognized POET on its annual list of “Most Innovative Companies” for transportation and FORTUNE recognized POET on its list of companies that are changing the world. For more information, visit poet.com.