Every five years, Congress passes legislation that sets national policies for agriculture, food, conservation and forestry. This bill, called the "Farm Bill," includes policies that affect ethanol companies and farmers who support ethanol production. During the week of 11/14, the United States Senate Committee on Agriculture held a session entitled "Farm Bill 2023: Rural Development and Energy," during which the senators highlighted the importance of supporting communities rural areas from this year's agricultural debt. Senate champions shared their support for the biofuels industry during their opening statements and questions from USDA Undersecretary for Rural Development Xochitl Torres Small: Governor Stabenow (D-Mich.): “As I always say in Michigan, we grow and make things, that's what drives our economy. Biobased products combine the two. These products create new markets for our local farmers, while reducing our dependence on fossil fuels... Therefore, I hope to hear advice on how to improve the organic program that likes and goes to n 'face to grow the economy of our country. Chairman Stabenow (D-Mich.): The recent $14 billion investment in clean energy builds on your department's legacy -- can you tell us when we should expect the USDA to open the door for these programs and the conditions of these programs? Undersecretary Torres Small: “Partnership is key. We want to make sure we respond to local ideas and visions. We are adapting our programs to support regional vision. In the case of the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) and the Better Infrastructure Improvement Program (HBIIP), we are committed to matching these funds as quickly as possible. In addition, Growth Energy submitted a letter for the record of the hearing that highlights the importance of the Cut Inflation Act and $500 million in funding for the United States Department of Agriculture to provide grants to expand biofuel pumping equipment, restore existing tanks and pumps, and increase the use of high ethanol blends.