Click to View: http://www.usda.gov/2005/07/0284.xml Release No. 0284.05 Contact: USDA Press Office (202) 720-4623 STATEMENT BY AGRICULTURE SECRETARY MIKE JOHANNS REGARDING PASSAGE OF THE ENERGY POLICY ACT OF 2005 July 29, 2005 "I am pleased that Congress has acted to send President Bush the Energy Policy Act of 2005 that will put us on course to meet our future energy needs and provide economic security for our farmers and ranchers, as well as our nation as a whole. A reliable and affordable energy supply is critical at a time when farm production costs are increasing. "This comprehensive national energy policy provides a robust renewable fuels provision that will increase the use of homegrown fuels, such as the use of 7.5 billion gallons of biodiesel and ethanol by 2012, helping to meet our nation's growing transportation needs, while reducing our dependence on imported oil. "The Energy Policy Act also extends the biodiesel tax credit through 2008 and expands the small producer tax credit, providing incentives for producers who want to start a biodiesel facility or ethanol plant. Taken together, these measures enable our nation's farmers and ranchers to expand our domestic energy supply, which promotes economic growth, independence and prosperity in America." # USDA News oc.news@xxxxxxxx 202 720-4623 ---------------------------------------------------- To unsubscribe, send email to oc.news@xxxxxxxx and reference your email address.
