WASHINGTON – House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., announced several Republican task forces as part of an ongoing effort to identify and address the most prevalent issues facing the American people. U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra, R-Iowa, will serve on the Energy, Climate, and Conservation task force, led by U.S. Rep. Garret Graves, R-La.
“I am honored Leader McCarthy selected me to serve on this task force, and I look forward to working with Rep. Graves and my colleagues on these important issues,” Feenstra said. “Together, we will work on developing commonsense, pro-innovation policies that empower our farmers and producers.
“As the number one state in ethanol and biodiesel production, Iowa is already at the forefront of clean energy solutions. A recent study found the carbon intensity of ethanol has decreased by 23%, and the industry is exploring impressive new carbon capture technology that could help biofuels become net carbon negative. With these exciting new developments, I look forward to bringing Iowa’s perspective to the table,” he stated.
“Additionally, the Energy, Climate, and Conservation task force will serve as an important counter to the Democrats’ approach to energy and the environment, which is focused on one-size-fits-all Green New Deal provisions that will tax and regulate family farms straight out of business. As a member of this task force, I will continue fighting for Iowa biofuel producers, crop growers, and livestock farmers,” Feenstra added.
Feenstra has pushed President Biden and administration officials on their commitment to ethanol and biodiesel. In May, Feenstra pressed Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Jennifer Granholm on the administration’s failure to include biofuels in the American Jobs Plan. He also coordinated members of the Iowa delegation in sending a letter to the president, urging him to uphold his previous promise to “promote and advance” ethanol and biofuels.
The Energy, Climate, and Conservation task force will expand on Republicans’ commitment to reducing global emissions by utilizing technologies that are clean and affordable. Members will focus on legislation that promotes innovation, invests in clean energy infrastructure, and implements initiatives in natural solutions and conservation.
