RFS is good for Newton, rural economies

The Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) is an Iowa success story that’s fueling American jobs and providing consumers greater choice at the pump. It means 73,000 Iowa jobs, $5 billion in wages to Iowa workers, and positive impacts on rural economies, like our own in Newton. Newton is home to the Renewable Energy Group, LLC (REG) plant and our community has seen firsthand the benefits of the RFS.

In the Iowa State House, I voted with my Republican and Democratic colleagues in support of a resolution backing the RFS last year. I was proud to cast my vote in support of this commonsense, bipartisan issue. The RFS faces a threat from interests outside our state — a threat, if materialized, would mean a massive hit to Iowa’s economy and job losses.

The RFS ensures that our domestically produced renewable fuels, like ethanol and biodiesel, have access to the motor fuel marketplace, but some in Washington, D.C. are threatening its survival. As candidates travel across Iowa this campaign season, I urge our candidates to support this commonsense, bipartisan policy and Iowa’s leading role in protecting consumer choice in the motor fuel market. In addition, I urge Iowans to consider where candidates stand on this issue as they begin considering whom they will support in next year’s caucus.