Bipartisan bill promoting SAF heard in Washington State Senate committee

Researchers estimate the aviation industry will account for 20 percent of global carbon-dioxide emissions by 2050 if reliance on hydrocarbon jet fuel continues.

To keep Washington moving toward a cleaner future, Sen. Marko Liias, D-Edmonds, is sponsoring bipartisan legislation to advance the state’s production and use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).

Senate Bill 5601, which was heard in the Senate Environment, Energy & Technology Committee Feb. 5, would create a grant program supporting the construction of the infrastructure required to develop SAF.

The bill also refines the tax treatment of these projects to incentivize new SAF technology development in the state.

“Washington is a leader both in the aviation industry and the fight against climate change,” Liias said.

“Making it easier to produce and use sustainable fuel in our state not only helps us reduce air pollution so we can breathe clean air but promotes job growth,” Liias added.

The bill implements recommendations from Washington State University’s 2024 Alternative Jet Fuels Work Group report.

The work group includes aviation industry leaders, elected officials, researchers and environmental stakeholders.

SB 5601 builds on Senate Democrats’ efforts to reduce carbon emissions and strengthen Washington’s green economy.

In 2024, iias sponsored SB 6114 to make SAF blends available to noncommercial, private jet owners.