NCGA president calls for action during White House meeting

WASHINGTON — National Corn Growers Association President Kenneth Hartman Jr. told Biden administration officials that farmers are living through difficult economic times, but the administration and Congress can help by removing barriers so growers can access expanding markets for U.S. corn.

Hartman’s comments came during an event, called “Farmers and Ranchers in Action,” hosted Oct. 8 at the White House.

“On behalf of my fellow corn growers, I spoke about the need to make it possible for producers to access tax credits for sustainable aviation fuels,” Hartman said.

“The tax credit would help us expand the ethanol market, which is important to growers, while boosting the airline industry’s efforts to lower greenhouse gas emissions.”

The White House meeting comes as producers are faced with falling corn and other commodity prices.

Hartman also touched on priorities that he hopes Congress will tackle and called on administration officials to help in any way they can with pending legislation, such as the farm bill.

“While we’re almost out of time this year, Congress should pass a robust farm bill,” Hartman said.

“I also think Congress can advance legislation that will allow consumers to access higher blends of ethanol. During my visit, I asked that the president sign these pieces of legislation once they make it to his desk.”