Algal Biomass Organization identifies four key Congressional bills

In Washington, the Algal Biomass Organization conducted a policy briefing based on surveys of more than 400 algae industry leaders, scientists, entrepreneurs and end users. The trade group identified the following key pieces of legislation for support, including:

1. Renewable Fuels Promotion Act of 2009 (S. 1250). Sponsored by Senator Bill Nelson (D-FL), this bill would give algae-based fuels tax parity with cellulosic biofuels.

2. Algae Fuel Parity Act (HR 3460). Sponsored by Representative Brian Bilbray (R-CA), this bill would amend the Clean Air Act to include algae-based biofuels in the Renewable Fuel Standard and in the cellulosic biofuel producer tax credit.

3. American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009 (HR 2454).  Sponsored by Henry Waxman (D-CA) and supported by Edward Markey (D-MA), this legislation recognizes algae's ability to beneficially reuse CO2 and ensures algae's place in a cap-and-trade regime.

4. Clean Energy Jobs and American Power Act of 2009 (S. 1733).  The Kerry-Boxer bill sponsored by Senator Barbara Boxer (D-CA) and Senator John Kerry (D-MA) recently was amended in the chairman's mark to level the playing field for advanced green biofuels and recognizes the potential of algae to beneficially reuse CO2, create jobs and increase the nation's energy independence.