Bill > HR3253

This bill amends the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 to enhance support for biorefineries, renewable chemicals, and biobased product manufacturing. Specifically, the bill expands the existing program to develop advanced biofuels, including ultra-low-carbon and zero-carbon bioethanol, by introducing a new competitive grant program for pilot and demonstration-scale biorefineries. The Secretary of Agriculture would establish a priority scoring system for grant applications, considering factors such as market potential, financial participation, innovative feedstock or technology use, potential for rural economic development, and contributions to energy security. Grants would be limited to 60% of project costs, with the remaining share coming from non-Federal sources. The bill authorizes $100 million in funding annually for fiscal years 2026 through 2030 to support these initiatives. Key changes include removing the "technologically new" requirement for projects, allowing more flexibility in technology selection, and providing the Secretary with the ability to waive feasibility study requirements for proven or commercially available technologies. The overall goal is to accelerate innovation and commercialization of advanced biofuels, renewable chemicals, and biobased products while supporting rural economic development.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/3253/all-info