WASHINGTON, D.C. — The following bills were introduced or co-sponsored by U.S. House members from Kansas the week ending May 7.
Supporting Energy and Economic Development (SEED) Act
The Supporting Energy and Economic Development (SEED) Act, originally introduced by Rep. Mike Carey, R-OH, on April 27, 2026, has been analyzed by the Congressional Research Service. The bill aims to extend existing tax incentives for biodiesel and renewable diesel through 2029, providing crucial support for the alternative energy sector.
The SEED Act seeks to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to bolster support for biodiesel and renewable diesel fuels. One of the primary provisions of the bill is the extension of the income tax credit, which originally was set to expire in 2024. By shifting the end date to 2029, the legislation aims to incentivize further investment and production in renewable fuels, fostering both environmental sustainability and economic growth.
Motivated by a need for cleaner energy alternatives, the SEED Act responds to increasing calls for sustainable fuel practices amid the global climate crisis. By providing financial incentives, the bill encourages businesses and consumers to adopt biodiesel and renewable diesel, which are viewed as critical components in reducing greenhouse gas emissions from transportation and industry.
Additionally, the legislation introduces provisions to prevent the double benefit of tax incentives, ensuring that taxpayers cannot simultaneously claim benefits from multiple codes for the same fuel types. This step aims to maintain the integrity of the tax system while promoting fair competition among renewable fuel producers.
As the energy landscape evolves, the SEED Act represents a strategic effort to ensure that biodiesel and renewable diesel can compete in a diversifying market. Advocates argue that by extending these incentives, the bill will not only aim to support the economy but also align with broader environmental goals, ultimately paving the way for a transition to more sustainable energy sources.
The bill (H.R. 8497) has 10 co-sponsors: Reps. J. Luis Correa, D-CA; Mike Kelly, R-PA; Salud O. Carbajal, D-CA; Darin LaHood, R-IL; Jim Costa, D-CA; Claudia Tenney, R-NY; Mariannette Miller-Meeks, R-IA; Dusty Johnson, R-SD; Ashley Hinson, R-IA; Tracey Mann, R-KS.
Homegrown Fertilizer Act
The Homegrown Fertilizer Act, originally introduced by Rep. Eric Sorensen, D-IL, on April 22, 2026, has been analyzed by the Congressional Research Service. The legislation aims to direct the Secretary of Agriculture to provide grants and direct or guaranteed loans to increase domestic fertilizer production for U.S. farmers.
The bill emerges amid ongoing challenges related to fertilizer availability and prices that have burdened American farmers. By incentivizing local production, the Homegrown Fertilizer Act seeks to enhance agricultural resilience and promote self-sufficiency. During a time of fluctuating global supply chains, the legislation is intended to bolster domestic manufacturing capabilities for fertilizers and nutrient alternatives, ensuring that U.S. farmers have reliable access to essential resources.
Key provisions of the bill include eligibility requirements for entities seeking funding, such as for-profit businesses, nonprofit organizations, and state or local governments. The Secretary of Agriculture will prioritize grants and loans for projects that propose innovative fertilizer production methods, improve competition, or expand storage capacities. Notably, the legislation caps grant amounts at $100 million, promoting significant projects while requiring recipients to secure matching non-federal funds.
Furthermore, the bill stipulates conditions aimed at preventing consolidation in the fertilizer market. Recipients of the grants or loans must agree to repay if their projects lead to ownership transfers that threaten market competitiveness. This reflects a broader concern regarding concentration within the agricultural supply sector and strives to maintain fair access to resources for a diverse array of farmers.
Overall, the Homegrown Fertilizer Act represents a proactive approach to agrarian challenges, fostering innovation and domestic resource management as essential components of America’s agricultural future.
The bill (H.R. 8457) has 6 co-sponsors: Reps. Ashley Hinson, R-IA; Nikki Budzinski, D-IL; Tracey Mann, R-KS; Angie Craig, D-MN; Mike Bost, R-IL; Sharice Davids, D-KS.
