By Scout Nelson
U.S. senators introduced the Biomanufacturing and Jobs Act to grow new markets for farmers by strengthening USDA’s BioPreferred program. The bill is led by Amy Klobuchar and Elissa Slotkin, with bipartisan support from Joni Ernst and Pete Ricketts. It focuses on using crops and other renewable materials to make biobased products that can replace petroleum items such as plastics and industrial goods.
The proposal modernizes and expands BioPreferred so more products, manufacturers, and federal purchasers participate. By encouraging biomanufacturing in the United States, the bill aims to create quality jobs, build value-added outlets for corn, soy, and other commodities, and reduce dependence on foreign supply chains. The effort also supports rural communities by increasing demand for farm feedstocks.
Support from industry and farm groups highlights the broad impact. Backers include the Plant Based Products Council, Corn Refiners Association, American Farm Bureau Federation, National Corn Growers Association, National Farmers Union, National Association of State Departments of Agriculture, Clean Fuels Alliance America, National Industrial Hemp Council of America, National Hemp Association, National Oilseed Producers Association, Renewable Fuels Association, and the Agriculture Energy Coalition.
Sponsors say the measure will reshore manufacturing and boost national competitiveness. For farmers, stronger markets for crop-based inputs can stabilize incomes and open doors for innovative products, from biodegradable packaging to cleaner industrial lubricants. For consumers, more plant-based choices can reduce waste and pollution while supporting American jobs.
If enacted, the legislation would help USDA update program tools, strengthen product labeling and purchasing guidance, and speed adoption of certified biobased goods. These steps are intended to make it easier for agencies and businesses to source American-made products and to grow the domestic bioeconomy.
In short, the Biomanufacturing and Jobs Act connects farm fields to factory floors, turning renewable resources into everyday items while supporting rural prosperity and environmental benefits. The initiative also encourages research, workforce training, and public awareness so students, entrepreneurs, and small businesses can enter the growing bioindustrial sector. With stronger demand signals and clearer standards, companies are more likely to invest in facilities, and farmers can plan acreage with confidence, knowing buyers will use their crops.
Photo Credit:gettyimages-nicolas
Categories: Nebraska, Crops, General, Government & Policy, Sustainable Agriculture