McEowen: “Interim guidelines that USDA put out is not the final word on the 45Z clean fuel production credit”

USDA has released the interim rule for climate-smart crops used as biofuel feedstocks.

While the guidance is welcome news for the industry, many are still waiting on additional clarity on the 45Z tax credit.

Roger McEowen with Washburn School of Law spoke with RFD-TV’s own Tammi Arender on the rule’s main highlights, the information that is still needed, and policy shifts as a new administration takes office.

Related Stories
President Donald Trump speaks at the World Economic Forum in Davos, addressing SNAP spending, tariff threats against Europe, market reactions, and the upcoming USMCA review.
Despite rising costs and growing food insecurity, meat demand remained strong in 2025 as higher-income consumers offset cutbacks elsewhere. Economists break down the K-shaped economy, upcoming USDA cattle reports, livestock production outlooks, and renewed debate over beef imports and country-of-origin labeling heading into 2026.
Corn growers are turning to ethanol, E15 expansion, and export markets to help absorb record supplies and stabilize prices. Farm leaders discuss low-carbon ethanol demand, flex-fuel vehicle challenges, input costs, and the role of USMCA as producers look for market relief in the year ahead.
Congressional leaders signal momentum toward expanded, targeted farm aid to help producers manage losses and cash-flow stress in 2026.
Protein-driven dairy growth is boosting beef supply potential, creating an opening to support rural jobs and ground beef availability.
New Resource Makes It Easier for People to Access Data on Rural Development funded Projects in Rural Communities