Why it Matters

Vertex Energy is making its federal lobbying debut amid massive energy policy upheaval. The renewable diesel producer registered Rubin, Turnbull & Associates Inc. in June 2025 as Trump’s administration froze clean fuel funding and proposed carbon taxes threaten refining economics.

By the Numbers

Vertex Energy is spending an undisclosed amount on its inaugural lobbying effort. The team includes three registered lobbyists: Heather L. Turnbull, William David Rubin, and one unnamed representative. None of the identified lobbyists show prior congressional staff experience in available records. The company has no previous federal lobbying history.

Broader Context

Trump’s “Unleashing American Energy” executive order in January 2025 froze Inflation Reduction Act funding that supports clean fuel production credits. The administration also disbanded climate working groups and revoked 12 Biden-era energy orders. These moves directly threaten the renewable diesel business model that companies like Vertex Energy have invested billions to develop.

The Agenda

Vertex Energy is lobbying on Manufacturing and Energy/Nuclear issues, though specific legislation isn’t detailed in the filing. The company operates conventional refineries alongside renewable diesel production and used motor oil recycling. Current policy battles include EPA’s proposed increases to renewable fuel requirements and Treasury’s implementation of the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit.

Competitive Landscape

The registration doesn’t detail other companies’ lobbying on similar issues. However, Vertex Energy competes in markets affected by the Renewable Fuel Standard, where bipartisan congressional letters from leaders like Senators Grassley and Klobuchar push for stronger renewable volume obligations. These policy fights pit domestic producers against importers using foreign feedstocks.

Between The Lines

Congress faces competing pressures on energy policy. The MARKET CHOICE Act would impose carbon taxes at refinery exit points, fundamentally altering economics for both conventional and renewable fuels. Meanwhile, Energy & Commerce Committee hearings emphasize permitting reform and maintaining U.S. refining capacity. EPA proposed significant 2026-2027 renewable fuel increases, but Trump’s funding freeze creates uncertainty about supporting tax credits.

The Bottom Line

Vertex Energy’s lobbying debut reflects industry recognition that 2025 policy decisions will determine which companies survive the energy transition. The company’s timing positions it to influence both defensive battles over frozen clean fuel credits and offensive opportunities from domestic feedstock preferences.

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