Farm to Fly Act of 2025
Farm to Fly Act of 2025
Plain Language Summary
# Farm to Fly Act of 2025 Summary **What the bill would do:** The Farm to Fly Act would direct the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to support the development and production of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF)—cleaner fuel alternatives for airplanes made from renewable materials instead of petroleum. The bill would allow SAF to qualify for existing USDA bioenergy programs that already provide financial support and incentives for renewable energy projects. It establishes specific standards that SAF must meet, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions by at least 50% compared to conventional jet fuel. **Who it affects:** This bill would primarily affect farmers and agricultural producers (who could grow feedstock materials for fuel), aviation companies and airports (who could use cleaner fuels), and renewable energy companies working in the biofuel sector.
Indirectly, it could affect consumers through changes in aviation fuel costs and environmental impact. **Key provision:** The bill includes strict definitions for what qualifies as sustainable aviation fuel, ensuring it meets international standards and excludes certain materials and petroleum-based products. This prevents greenwashing and ensures genuine environmental benefits. **Current status:** The bill is currently in committee (HR 1719, introduced in the 119th Congress by Rep. Max Miller of Ohio). It has not yet been voted on by the full House.
CRS Official Summary
Farm to Fly Act of 2025This bill directs the Department of Agriculture (USDA) to integrate the advancement of sustainable aviation fuels into its programs.Specifically, this bill includes sustainable aviation fuel as an advanced biofuel for the purposes of several USDA bioenergy programs that primarily provide support and incentives for renewable energy projects.For purposes of these programs, the bill defines sustainable aviation fuel as liquid fuel, the portion of which is not kerosene, which (1) meets specific international standards, (2) is not derived from coprocessing specific materials (e.g., triglycerides) with a non-biomass feedstock, (3) is not derived from palm fatty acid distillates or petroleum, and (4) is certified as having a lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions reduction percentage of at least 50% compared with petroleum-based jet fuel (based on specific standards and agreements).In addition, the bill specifically includes fostering and advancing sustainable aviation fuels as part of the Biorefinery, Renewable Chemical, and Biobased Product Manufacturing Assistance Program.Further, USDA must carry out a comprehensive and integrated pursuit of all USDA mission areas for the advancement of sustainable aviation fuels, including throughthe identification of opportunities to maximize the development and commercialization of the fuels,supporting rural economic development through improved sustainability for aviation, andadvancing public-private partnerships.
Latest Action
Referred to the Subcommittee on General Farm Commodities, Risk Management, and Credit.