John Arbuthnot said, "Law is a bottomless pit." It falls to the National Biodiesel Board's Government Affairs team to monitor the constant, endless changes and movements that are part of public policy, which has a direct impact on the U.S. biodiesel industry.

NBB's government affairs program integrates the biodiesel industry's diverse and widespread interests into a cohesive voice and targeted industry goals.

In 2003, there were about 100 biodiesel related bills considered in state legislatures. Last year, that number topped 650. NBB takes a proactive role in monitoring legislation that could impact the biodiesel industry. Strategic relationships across the country allow NBB to positively impact the overall state regulatory picture, a feat impossible on a smaller scale.

The NBB also maintains a significant presence in Washington, D.C., to ensure that the voice of the U.S. biodiesel is industry is heard in the federal legislative and regulatory process. NBB's Washington DC staff interacts regularly with U.S. Congress, federal agencies and other relevant stakeholders to advocate on behalf of the industry's interests, and works to influence the process in a manner consistent with the goals and priorities established by NBB's membership.

Proactively monitoring and participating in the development of federal and state policies must be an ongoing priority for the industry.