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Growth Energy eager to learn more about USDA’s COVID aid for biofuels

Biofuels are included in USDA’s Pandemic Assistance for Producers initiative.

Chris Bliley with Growth Energy tells Brownfield yesterday’s announcement indicates more than $6 billion from the consolidated appropriations act and other COVID relief funding will target a broad number of pieces from the ag economy.

“We don’t yet know the details, but we’re certainly pleased that USDA plans to provide this long-awaited assistance to biofuel producers.”

He says the biofuels industry continues to struggle as fuel demand lags compared to pre-COVID levels.

“Secretary Vilsack’s announcement that aid is on the way is really a light at the end of the tunnel. So we’re going to work with USDA as they iron out the details for biofuel producers, and really look to revitalize the ag economy.”

Prior to December, former USDA Secretary Sonny Perdue claimed his department did not have the authority to provide COVID aid to biofuels producers.  But the relief package that passed at the end of 2020 included language making it possible at the discretion of the Ag Secretary.