South Cuyahoga News

U.S. Congressman Max Miller (OH-07) has introduced a resolution, H.Res 628, marking the 20th anniversary of the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). The RFS is credited with enhancing U.S. energy security, supporting rural areas, and contributing to economic growth. Several House members joined Miller in this effort, including Rep. Don Bacon (R-NE), Rep. Mike Bost (R-IL), Rep. Nikki Budzinski (D-IL), Rep. Angie Craig (D-MN), Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-IA), Rep. Mike Flood (R-NE), Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA), Rep. Zack Nunn (R-IA), and Rep. Adrian Smith (R-NE). The Senate version is led by Sen. Pete Ricketts (R-NE) and co-sponsored by other senators.

“For two decades, the Renewable Fuel Standard has been one of the most successful federal fuels policies improving energy security, lowering consumer fuel prices, creating good-paying jobs in rural America, and boosting the farm economy,” said Rep. Miller. “I’m proud to join the effort to drive energy dominance and economic opportunity here in Ohio and throughout the nation.”

Senator Ricketts also highlighted the policy’s impact: “The Renewable Fuel Standard is one of the federal government’s most successful clean fuels policies,” said Senator Ricketts. “For two decades, renewable fuels like ethanol and biodiesel have saved consumers money, supported Nebraska agriculture, cleaned our environment, and unleashed American energy. I appreciate my colleagues’ support for this resolution.”

Rep. Bacon noted Nebraska’s role as a leading ethanol producer: “For two decades, the Renewable Fuel Standard has been a cornerstone of American energy independence and agricultural prosperity... RFS continues to prove that American farmers and biofuel producers are essential partners in securing our energy future and meeting our nation’s climate goals.”

Rep. Budzinski emphasized benefits for farmers: “For 20 years, the Renewable Fuel Standard has created incredible new opportunities for our farmers... As we celebrate this important anniversary, I remain committed to championing renewable fuels every single day and pushing for policies like nationwide, year-round E15.”

Other lawmakers echoed these sentiments about rural communities’ gains from biofuels markets.

Industry representatives also voiced support for the program’s legacy over twenty years.

Tyler Drewes of Ohio Corn & Wheat Growers Association stated: “The 20th anniversary of the Renewable Fuels Standard is more than just a milestone for policy—it’s personal for farmers like me... The RFS hasn’t just fueled our cars, it’s fueled opportunity, growth, and resilience across the country.”

Rusty Goebel from Ohio Soybean Association added: “The Renewable Fuel Standard’s establishment 20 years ago helped soybean oil go from a byproduct to a main driver of demand for America’s farmers in the form of biodiesel... This kind of economic impact would not be possible without the RFS.”

Devin Mogler from National Oilseed Processors Association remarked on increased domestic processing investment due to RFS incentives.

Nick Smith at ADM noted job creation: “Today, our domestic biofuel industry supports hundreds of thousands of good jobs across the American Heartland... We remain committed to continued growth…”

Joshua Shields at POET referenced expanded grain markets since implementation.

Geoff Cooper at Renewable Fuels Association described broad impacts: “Over the past two decades…reducing dependence on foreign oil…creating hundreds of thousands of jobs across rural America…”

Emily Skor at Growth Energy pointed out market share gains by renewables in U.S fuel supplies.

Max Miller currently serves as U.S Representative for Ohio's 7th district after replacing Bob Gibbs in 2023; he was born in Shaker Heights in 1988 and graduated from Cleveland State University with a BA in 2013.

The full text of H.Res 628 can be found here.