LANSING, Mich. (June 25, 2025) — Today, the Michigan Senate passed bipartisan legislation to help launch the sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) industry in Michigan. Sponsored by Senate Majority Floor Leader Sam Singh (D-East Lansing) and Sen. Joseph Bellino (R-Monroe), Senate Bills 235–36 would establish an income tax credit for the producers and blenders of SAF — a move that would support Michigan’s farmers and economy while reducing the state’s carbon footprint.
“It has been an exciting process to partner with my colleagues across the aisle and across the chamber on this legislation, which not only aims to support Michigan farmers but — in continuing what was outlined in the Clean Energy Future plan — would reduce our reliance on fossil fuels,” said Sen. Singh. “This legislation will open new markets for farmers, helping revitalize rural economies and reinforcing the connection between our agricultural sector and the state’s energy goals.”
SAF is an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional jet fuel, produced using bio-renewable products like ethanol or diesel, which are manufactured from crops like soybeans or corn. By providing a $1.50 per gallon tax credit for those who purchase, produce, or blend sustainable aviation fuel, this legislation would directly support farmers and the businesses that develop and supply cleaner-burning, ethanol-derived aviation fuels. Additional incentives are available if greater emissions reductions are reached. There is a maximum incentive cap of $4.5 million annually in the first year, and $9 million each year after.
“Access to sustainable, reliable, and affordable energy products is critical to long-term economic growth,” said Sen. Bellino. “I am proud to be part of a commonsense, bipartisan approach to enlisting Michigan farmers in the effort to provide cleaner aviation fuel in our state. It is a proactive solution that supports our local farmers, boosts our agriculture industry, and better ensures stable fuel costs — all while also helping cut harmful emissions.”
These bills now head to the House for further consideration, where their version of this legislation, House Bills 4424–25, sponsored by state Rep. Jerry Neyer (R-Shepherd), also await consideration.