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Franken introduces bill to bolster Farm Bill energy programs

U.S. Senator Al Franken has introduced legislation that would increase investments in Farm Bill energy programs.

The Minnesota Democrat co-authored the energy title in the 2014 Farm Bill, and is seeking additional resources for the next cycle.

“I have introduced an energy title which provides hundreds of millions of dollars for rural energy efforts across the country.  That creates jobs, spurs economic development and helps farmers and rural businesses reduce their energy costs.”

He says the measure also provides financial incentives through its popular Rural Energy for America Program (REAP), and supports advanced biofuel production.

“It improves the market for sustainable agriculture feed stocks and allow the use of sugar in the production of ethanol, which is very critical in keeping the sugar program in case there is a surplus.”

Given the likelihood of a smaller federal budget, Franken contends investing in renewable energy pays for itself.

His bill is supported by fellow Midwest Senators Dick Durbin of Illinois and Tammy Baldwin of Wisconsin.