Ruling paves way for boosting renewable fuels and strong soybean demand

The State of Minnesota, Minnesota soybean farmers and biodiesel producers won a complete dismissal Thursday in the lawsuit challenging the state’s biodiesel mandate. The decision by Chief Judge John Tunheim of the U.S. District Court in Minneapolis clears the road for summer blends of B20 (20 percent biodiesel blend) in May 2018, and continues to provide numerous benefits for all Minnesotans while adding value to Minnesota soybeans.

“We are very pleased to see the state and Minnesota Soybean’s motions were successful in dismissing the case against the state’s biodiesel mandate,” said Theresia Gillie, Minnesota Soybean Growers Association president. “Once again, Minnesota is at the forefront of energy independence and supporting renewable fuels.”

The current B10 blend equates to annually removing 128,000 passenger vehicles from Minnesota roads and is America’s only advanced biofuel. B20 will bring more value to the soybean as biodiesel has stimulated Minnesota’s agricultural economy. By increasing demand for Minnesota soybeans by 13 percent, biodiesel generates an estimated $200 million in economic activity.

“The benefits of biodiesel serve all Minnesotans,” said Mike Youngerberg, Minnesota Soybean’s senior director of field services. “Biodiesel reduces our dependence on imported petroleum while increasing farmer profitability, creating green jobs and boosting economic growth in Minnesota.”

The added bonus is biodiesel, since 2005, has significantly improved air quality in Minnesota, among other environmental benefits. This is win for all Minnesotans.

In his ruling, Judge Tunheim ruled Minnesota’s biodiesel mandate is not preempted by the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). Minnesota’s mandate actually creates demand for biodiesel, and works in conjunction with the current RFS.

“Nearly all engine manufacturers approve B20 for their engines and now Minnesotans are ready for the move to B20,” Gillie said. “We thank the State of Minnesota for their vehement defense of the biodiesel mandate.”

MSGA is a non-profit, farmer-controlled membership organization established in 1962. Its goal is to assure profitable soybean farming by influencing favorable ag legislation, monitoring government policies and supporting research and market development.