Missouri AG fights California biofuel policy harmful to Missouri farms

Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey has addressed a formal letter to California’s Air Resources Board (CARB), urging the immediate withdrawal of a proposed amendment that threatens Missouri’s agriculture and biofuels sectors. This amendment, if enacted, would place a significant burden on Missouri farmers and impede the state’s economic vitality.

“Missouri’s agriculture and biofuels industries are vital to the success of our state, so I will do everything in my power to protect Missouri farmers,” Bailey stated. “I will not allow radical climate activists in California to attack our family farms and hinder our state’s economic growth.”

The proposed amendment seeks to cap the percentage of soybean oil eligible for credit at 20 percent and introduces strict reporting requirements. These conditions could compel Missouri farmers to disclose sensitive details about their operations. Concerns are heightened by the absence of public workshops or formal rulemaking for the proposal, a move that Bailey flagged as concerning.

The amendment would grant CARB’s Executive Officer the power to unilaterally determine indirect land use change (ILUC) values using metrics such as land cover, crop yield, and emissions. Bailey emphasized in the letter that Missouri farmers have consistently demonstrated environmental stewardship and should be recognized as essential contributors to efforts aimed at improving air quality nationwide.

Agriculture plays a crucial role in both the national and Missouri economies, with the state boasting over 88,000 farms contributing substantial revenue. Bailey argued that California’s amendment would weaken Missouri’s agricultural strength and result in economic repercussions.

The attorney general called for the proposal to be halted promptly, underscoring the broader impact such a move would have on the state’s farmers and economy.

The full letter can be accessed here.

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