ASA this week called on members to contact their U.S. Senators and urge them to sign-on to a letter expressing support for a 2014 RFS volume requirement for biomass-based diesel of at least 1.7 billion gallons, consistent with current year production levels.  The bipartisan letter is led by Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA), Sen. Roy Blunt (R-MO), Sen. Al Franken (D-MN) and Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and the deadline for other Senators to sign isThursday, Nov. 7.

A draft proposal that was leaked several weeks ago, suggests the U.S. EPA is considering setting the RFS Required Volume Obligation (RVO) for Biomass-based diesel at 1.28 billion gallons for 2014. This would be a set back to the U.S. biodiesel industry, as production this year is expected to reach 1.7 billion gallons  and setting the 2014 RVO at a level lower than 2013 production would be detrimental to the U.S. biodiesel industry and soybean farmers. Reducing the 2014 RVO for Biomass-based diesel below 2013 production levels would result in reduced demand for soybean oil, which accounts for about half of all U.S. biodiesel production. The 1.7 billion gallons of biodiesel that is expected to be produced in 2013 will utilize over 6 billion pounds of soybean oil.

Indications are that the official proposal from EPA could be issued as soon as Friday, Nov. 8. In addition to having members of Congress weigh-in with EPA prior to the release of the proposal, ASA will be working with industry stakeholders during the public comment period in order to achieve the best possible final rule.