[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 97 (Friday, June 15, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1306]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          MARKET INCENTIVES FOR BIOBASED PRODUCTS ACT OF 2007

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                           HON. NICK LAMPSON

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, June 15, 2007

  Mr. LAMPSON. Madam Speaker, I am proud to introduce a bill today 
related to Federal procurement of biobased products  and the labeling 
of such products, known as the Market Incentives for Biobased Products 
Act of 2007. The Federal Government serves a vital role in promoting 
new technologies and products by creating a market as the country's 
largest consumer.
  This bill, which will amend section 9002 of the Security and Rural 
Investment Act of 2002, will require the Secretary of Agriculture to 
set biobased product procurement guidelines for Federal agencies. A 
stronger biobased procurement program will help strengthen rural 
communities and uplift our Nation's farmers by creating new jobs and 
new markets. Additionally, by replacing petroleum-based products with 
bio-based products, this program will decrease our Nation's dependence 
on foreign oil and protect the environment.
  Just as the mandate to purchase recycled paper spurred the growth 
ofthat industry, we can do the same with biobased products. Although it 
took 12 years for the EPA to establish guidelines for recycled paper, 
all 50 States followed suit and it has become a mainstream product 
whose quality has improved vastly over the years. While the USDA has 
made great strides in establishing the BioPreferred Program, I hope 
this bill will stimulate expansion of biobased product use in a timely 
manner.
  This bill also requires the Secretary to establish labeling 
requirements for finished products and intermediate ingredients in 
consultation with Federal agencies, producers of biobased products, and 
various interested organizations within 90 days of enactment. Setting 
uniform labeling standards will aid in purchasing decisions, 
dissemination of products, and eventually build consumer confidence in 
bio-based products.
  Finally, this bill sets reporting requirements so Congress can ensure 
the progress of the procurement and labeling program. I believe that 
proper oversight is essential to guarantee forward movement of this 
program and conscientious use of taxpayer dollars.
  By setting high goals and standards, this body can pave the way for 
the expansion of a burgeoning industry, and have positive affects our 
farmers, our environment, and our national security.

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