RFA Ethanol Podcast

Senator Donnelly Receives NCGA President’s Award

Kelly Marshall

NCGA President's AwardU.S. Senator Joe Donnelly of Indiana has earned the President’s Award by the National Corn Growers Association.  Chip Bowling, president of NCGA, explains that the honor is given to leaders who strive to advance important issues to corn farmers and agriculture.

“Senator Donnelly is a true advocate for farmers in Indiana and throughout the country,” said Bowling. “He is one of ethanol’s biggest champions in Congress. He understands the importance of ethanol and the Renewable Fuel Standard, which has made America more energy independent, strengthened the rural economy, and given consumers more choices, lower prices, and cleaner air. He has consistently defended the RFS and has spearheaded meetings with the Administration in support of this policy. He is also a lead sponsor of a bill that would give consumers access to higher blends of ethanol year-round.”

“Indiana and America’s corn farmers are providing the feed, food, and fuel that help to feed our families and power our economy,” said Senator Donnelly. “It is an honor to be recognized by the National Corn Growers Association, and I look forward to continuing to work hard every day to bring the wisdom of America’s farmers to Washington to advance the interests of our farming and rural communities.”

“Senator Donnelly knows that farmers need clarity and certainty when it comes to regulations that affect their business,” said Bowling. “He cosponsored the Federal Water Quality Protection Act, a bipartisan bill to improve and clarify the EPA and Army Corps of Engineers’ Waters of the U.S. rule. While the bill ultimately fell short, we appreciate his efforts to find a permanent, constructive solution to the WOTUS rule.”

Joe Donnelly is the junior Senator from Indiana. He previously represented the 2nd Congressional District of Indiana in the U.S. House of Representatives. As a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, he helped negotiate and pass the 2014 Farm Bill, which included a landmark shift toward a market-based risk management program. He has also supported increased funding for inland waterways, roads, bridges, and railroads, which help farmers and ranchers get their products to market quickly, safely, and efficiently.

Donnelly is Ranking Member of the Senate Agriculture Subcommittee on Commodities, Markets, Trade and Risk Management. Prior to serving in Congress, Donnelly helped run a small business and practiced law.

“Senator Donnelly is a leader and problem-solver at a time when Washington is desperately lacking in both,” said Bowling. “It has been a privilege to work closely with him and his staff during his time in Washington, and we look forward to continuing that relationship.”

Ag Groups, NCGA