WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

The Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO) today thanked Rep. Marcy Kaptur (D-Ohio) and 16 other original cosponsors for introducing the Rural Energy Investment Act of 2012, which would reauthorize Farm Bill Energy Title programs, provide significant mandatory funding, and ensure eligibility for additional biorefineries and products, such as biobased products and renewable chemicals. BIO President & CEO Jim Greenwood released the following statement:

I agree with Representative Kaptur that Farm Bill energy programs are working. The programs have had a tremendous positive impact in revitalizing rural America, helping new agricultural markets emerge, and reducing the need for direct payments to farmers. Through these programs, companies are unlocking private capital for construction of the nations first cellulosic and advanced biofuel biorefineries; and farmers in 12 states are putting more than 160,000 acres of underutilized farmland back into production raising next generation energy crops. There has also been an explosion of renewable chemicals innovation, demonstration and early commercialization here in the United States, and Representative Kapturs bill would support its continued momentum.

The Farm Bill energy programs have produced a high rate of return for American taxpayers, in terms of viable projects funded and operating and new employment opportunities in rural areas. We will work with Representative Kaptur and other Members of Congress to ensure that these successful programs continue to work.

About BIO

BIO represents more than 1,100 biotechnology companies, academic institutions, state biotechnology centers and related organizations across the United States and in more than 30 other nations. BIO members are involved in the research and development of innovative healthcare, agricultural, industrial and environmental biotechnology products. BIO also produces the BIO International Convention, the worlds largest gathering of the biotechnology industry, along with industry-leading investor and partnering meetings held around the world. BIO produces BIOtech NOW, an online portal and monthly newsletter chronicling innovations transforming our world. Subscribe to BIOtech NOW.

Upcoming BIO Events 2012 BIO International Convention June 18-21, 2012 Boston, MA

BIO Business Forum June 18 21, 2012 Boston, MA

BIO India International Conference September 12 13, 2012 Mumbai, India

Livestock Biotech Summit September 19 21, 2012 Kansas City, MO

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BIO Applauds Rep. Kaptur’s Energy Investment Act of 2012