June 26, 2009 - Washington – Renewable Fuels Association President and CEO Bob Dinneen today congratulated the House of Representatives for taking the first important step toward a national policy to reduce carbon emissions.

In addition, Dinneen also praised House Agriculture Committee Chairman Collin Peterson and House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Henry Waxman for negotiating a good faith compromise with respect to the controversial theory of international indirect land use change and its application in penalizing ethanol production in the U.S. The RFA helped to lead the effort to find compromise between the committees and those stakeholders seeking further emission restrictions.

“Fairly and accurately determining the carbon footprint and consequences of all our energy choices is critical. Penalizing biofuels for decisions made in other parts of the world defies logic. Chairmen Peterson and Waxman have recognized this fact and negotiated a fair compromise that will allow for the continued growth of America’s biofuels industry and achieve our environmental and energy goals. When equally compared to gasoline and petroleum, study after study has concluded that biofuels are better for the economy, the environment and our nation’s energy security.

“Passage of this bill is an important first step toward delivering President Obama a bill that he can sign into law. Still, a great deal of work remains. The RFA will continue to work with lawmakers and the Obama Administration to ensure this important legislation becomes law in a manner that is fair, workable, and ultimately successful.”