Grassley calls out Biden-Harris “ag failures”

NEW HARTFORD — Iowa’s senior US Senator says many of his constituent farmers have concerns regarding the Biden-Harris administration’s approach to agriculture, energy and trade.

Chuck Grassley last week sent a letter to the White House about several issues that he’s heard from farmers during his recent visits around the state.  “In the letter I’ve outlined concerns and frustrations with this administration’s impact on the agriculture community. These concerns come from the fact that net farm cash income is estimated to be $22 billion lower this year compared to 2021, and this year’s ag trade deficit is on track to hit $32 billion — that’s $32 billion deficit.”

Grassley says the Biden-Harris administration has had harmful ag and trade policies. He says they’ve had a lousy record on trade deals, and they’ve had burdensome regulations that have posed challenges as well.   “An example along this line, you remember the ridiculous Waters of the US definition, which the Supreme Court rightfully ruled against. Then there’s another issue I raised in the letter is the complex Section 40B framework around Sustainable Aviation Fuel tax credits. That Sustainable Aviation Fuel is one of the biofuels that we’re developing now.”

Grassley is also urging the White House to prioritize agricultural issues and lend farmers a helping hand by issuing timely, science-backed guidance on the 45Z Clean Fuels tax credit and expanding market access.   “I’m pushing for timely 45Z guidance that works for American farmers and expands our market export opportunities. 45Z is also another biofuel issue. President Biden should be listening to farmers and make them a priority for the remainder of his administration.”

Grassley is a member of the Senate’s Agriculture Committee.