By Andi Anderson
U.S. Senator Joni Ernst is partnering with Senator Amy Klobuchar on the GRAIN DRY Act, a bipartisan bill that would boost access to propane for agricultural operations through expanded USDA loan options.
The legislation would modify the USDA’s Farm Storage Facility Loan Program to allow funds to be used for building and upgrading on-farm propane storage units—essential for grain drying, livestock comfort, and powering equipment.
“Propane is a critical input that producers depend on to complete essential daily farm operations like drying and storing grain, keeping livestock warm, and powering farm equipment,” said Senator Ernst.
The National Propane Gas Association backs the legislation. Its CEO, Stephen Kaminski, said: “This important bill will empower farmers to invest in additional storage through low-interest loans, helping ensure they have the fuel they need when they need it most.”
Propane is used widely in agriculture, but under current USDA policy, the fuel’s storage facilities are not eligible for the Farm Storage Facility Loan Program.
With over 80% of grain dryers running on propane and rising supply issues in recent years, the need for flexible storage solutions has become urgent.
Ernst, who chairs the Senate Agriculture Subcommittee on Rural Development, Energy, and Credit, highlights that rising energy costs have made propane supply more difficult to secure during peak demand.
By including propane infrastructure under the USDA loan umbrella, the GRAIN DRY Act aims to reduce risk and improve fuel access during key farm seasons.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: Iowa, Government & Policy