Michigan lawmakers propose bills for sustainable aviation fuel incentive program

The Michigan Legislature's Transportation and Infrastructure meeting on June 3, 2025, focused on proposed House Bills 44, 204, and 25, which aim to establish a sustainable aviation fuel incentive program. This initiative is designed to support agricultural producers and promote green energy within the state.

During the meeting, a key speaker highlighted the importance of sustainable aviation fuels, which consist of a blend of 50% jet fuel and 50% ethanol derived from crops. The speaker emphasized that airlines are increasingly seeking clean-burning fuels to comply with carbon dioxide and other environmental regulations. However, they pointed out a significant challenge: Michigan currently lacks the supply chain necessary to produce and distribute sustainable aviation fuels.

The proposed legislation seeks to address this gap by incentivizing the production of sustainable aviation fuels, thereby positioning Michigan as a leader in green energy solutions. The discussion underscored the potential for agriculture to play a central role in the state's transition to more sustainable energy practices.

As the meeting concluded, the significance of these bills was clear, with potential implications for both the agricultural sector and the aviation industry in Michigan. The next steps will involve further deliberation on the proposed legislation and its impact on the state's energy landscape.