Questions Continue On Costly Fuel Production by Horace McQueen
Why do so many politicians get bent out of shape when taxpayers question the need to subsidize ethanol and biodiesel plants that cost us an arm and a leg. Probably because of big campaign contributions that continue to roll in from those who are paid by the alternative fuel makers.The “ethanol lobby” is backed by corporations that have a vested interest in keeping the billion dollar government payments to make ethanol from corn and other grains. No matter that so much ethanol is being produced that our oil and gas companies can’t use all that is available. So, the ethanol companies are selling the overproduction to other countries — at a price far less than they get here. The subsidies still make the production of ethanol a winner for the producers and a disaster for our taxpayers.
As for “biodiesel”, used in diesel powered machinery, that’s another rip off of the taxpayer. The fuel is made from soybean oil, used restaurant grease and animal fats. Several foreign nations have got into the act. In 2015, over one third of the biodiesel consumed in the U.S. — over 700 million gallons — was brought in from other countries.
And, yes, again the taxpayer paid the price. The imported fuel producers in South America and other nations put our citizens on the hook to subsidize the imports. The foolishness needs to stop — and with a new Sheriff in the White House, maybe common sense will prevail.
Some folks seem to find time to groan, moan and file lawsuits that never should have come to pass. One West Virginia mother said her son is being subjected to being taught Christian principles in elementary school, and she wants it stopped! Her contention is that prayer and Bible classes in school are unconstitutional. Her son, and any other students who objected to the classes, were told they did not have to attend the classes. However, the hovering mother said her son would be ostracized and ridiculed by the other students if he did not attend the classes. By the way, the Bible classes are electives for students in the school.
Weather seems to be almost spring-like. And most of us are ready for green grass, plenty of sunshine — and above all, higher cattle prices and lower feed costs. Wouldn’t that be an achievement?