Nov. 11, 2025

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Following Senate action to advance legislation to end the prolonged government shutdown, Corn Refiners Association President and CEO John Bode released a statement welcoming the development and urging continued action to support American agriculture.  

“CRA strongly supports ending the government shutdown and welcomes this important step toward restoring stability for American farmers, workers, and rural communities,” said Bode. “We are encouraged that the legislation extends authority for USDA’s BioPreferred Program — an essential initiative that drives demand for U.S. agricultural products and strengthens domestic bioproduct manufacturing. However, without sufficient funding, the program cannot fulfill its mission. We urge USDA to prioritize the resources needed to resume BioPreferred operations and call on Congress to ensure full funding moving forward. American agriculture and the growing bioeconomy depend on it.”

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About the Corn Refiners Association (CRA)  
The Corn Refiners Association (CRA) is the national trade association representing the corn refining industry of the United States. CRA and its predecessors have served this important segment of American agribusiness since 1913. Corn refiners manufacture sweeteners, starch, advanced bioproducts, corn oil and feed products from corn components such as starch oil, protein, and fiber.