Columbia News

U.S. Representatives Mark Alford (R-MO), Angie Craig (D-MN), Kristen McDonald Rivet (D-MI), and Mark Messmer (R-IN) have reintroduced the Biomanufacturing and Jobs Act, a bipartisan bill aimed at strengthening the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s BioPreferred Program. The legislation seeks to increase market access for bio-based products and maintain the United States' position as a leader in biomanufacturing.

Companion legislation has been introduced in the Senate by Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Joni Ernst (R-IA), and Pete Ricketts (R-NE).

Rep. Alford said, “The USDA’s Bio Preferred Program is a game-changer for industries worldwide — and it starts with America’s farmers and ranchers. Through this program, they turn homegrown agricultural feedstocks into biobased products that power our economy. This legislation safeguards and strengthens their access to these critical markets. I’m proud to team up with Reps. Craig, McDonald Rivet, and Messmer to champion this vital effort for our producers and our future!”

Rep. Craig added, “Increasing market access for biomanufacturers benefits the environment, strengthens our economy, creates good-paying jobs, and opens up opportunities for Minnesota’s family farmers. I’m proud to be introducing this bipartisan bill to stabilize markets for bio-based products and ensure America remains the world leader in biomanufacturing.”

Rep. McDonald Rivet stated, “We need to find innovative ways to support growers and help our economy thrive. This bill will help strengthen markets for farmers, fortify American biomanufacturing jobs, and stand up to foreign competitors. Our coalition of Democrats and Republicans is standing together to support Michigan’s hardworking farmers and ensure we continue producing here at home, not overseas.”

Rep. Messmer said, "American farm goods don't just reach the dinner table. They fill fuel tanks, stock supply closets, and even fight fires. By encouraging the expansion of our biobased supply chain, this legislation invests in the rural innovator and the American farmer. I am proud to support the biobased industry in Indiana's Eighth District through the Biomanufacturing and Jobs Act."

Mark Alford has served as U.S. Representative for Missouri's 4th district since 2023 after replacing Vicky Hartzler (https://alford.house.gov/about). He was born in Baytown, Texas in 1963 before moving to Lake Winnebago (https://ballotpedia.org/Mark_Alford). Alford earned his BA from the University of Texas at Austin in 1988.