US Sen. Durbin visits Incobrasa Industries to discuss biofuels’ importance to Illinois farmers

Photo: Illinois Soybean Association

U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin visited Incobrasa Industries in Gilman, Illinois, May 29 to meet with representatives from the Illinois Soybean Association, Incobrasa leadership and Illinois soybean farmers to discuss the importance of biofuels and issues impacting the industry.

Durbin learned more about the company’s ongoing investments in Illinois during a discussion focused on the role biodiesel plays in supporting Illinois soybean farmers, strengthening rural economies, expanding domestic energy production and creating markets for Illinois-grown soybeans.

Participants also discussed current federal policies impacting the biofuels industry and the need for a stable policy environment that supports continued growth and investment.

“Illinois soybean farmers rely on strong domestic markets, and biofuels continue to be one of the most important success stories for our industry,” said Kevin Johnson, the director of government relations and strategy for ISA. “We appreciate Sen. Durbin taking the time to hear directly from farmers and industry leaders about the opportunities and challenges facing biofuels today. His continued engagement on these issues helps ensure Illinois remains a leader in renewable fuels, agricultural innovation and rural economic development.”

Durbin added, “I appreciated the opportunity to hear directly from representatives of the Illinois Soybean Association and Incobrasa Industries about the challenges our farmers face with biofuels and the wider farm economy. At a time with high energy prices, we should be embracing domestic production of biofuels. Illinois farmers face enough challenges from chaotic tariffs and foreign-policy decisions that cause skyrocketing costs for diesel and fertilizer. I will continue to work with my Senate colleagues to restore some common sense back into policies that impact the farm economy.”

Incobrasa Industries is one of several Illinois companies helping convert soybean oil into biodiesel, creating additional demand for Illinois soybeans while supporting jobs and economic activity throughout rural communities.

Soybeans remain a key feedstock for biodiesel production, helping advance cleaner-burning domestic fuels while providing important value-added markets for farmers.

The visit reflects ISA’s ongoing efforts to educate federal policymakers on issues important to Illinois soybean farmers, such as policies that support biofuels, agricultural competitiveness and long-term opportunities for rural communities across the state.