Kurt Kovarik serves as Vice President, Federal Affairs for Clean Fuels Alliance America, leading members in advocating federal policies that support the industry’s growth. Kovarik has helped the industry secure a long-term extension of the biodiesel tax incentive; preserve important protections against unfair international trade; ensure the integrity of the Renewable Fuel Standard program; and organize the industry’s advocacy for equitable tax, infrastructure, and environmental policies. Kovarik formerly worked more than 20 years in the office of Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA), leading efforts on the Renewable Fuel Standard, the biodiesel tax incentive, and increased use of biofuels. An Iowa native, Kovarik graduated from Luther College with a degree in political science.

Russ Sullivan is one of the top tax attorneys and advocates in the country. Sullivan translates federal policy and the U.S. tax code for clients’ boards and members and identifies untapped opportunities. Sullivan has developed the leading energy tax policy practice, representing utilities, oil and gas enterprises, renewable energy developers, energy start-ups, public power, building upon the experience he gained firsthand on these issues during his 14 years of service on the Senate Finance Committee. During his time in Congress, Sullivan saw some of the most important issues within the energy sector come before the committee and helped draft landmark legislation, including the 2005 and 2007 Energy Policy Acts and the legislation initiating the “commence construction” within the Internal Revenue Code. Sullivan is passionate about at-risk youth, has served as legal guardian for 22 teenagers, and has continually fought for an increase in the adoption tax credit. He proudly serves on the board of directors for the Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute.

Tim Urban leads the tax policy practice at Bracewell’s Policy Resolution Group. He is an experienced tax lobbyist who has advocated for clients on every major tax bill introduced in Congress over the past 20 years. Urban presents companies on business tax issues, extension of temporary tax provisions and federal tax policies within the energy sector.

David Cobb serves as Director of Federal Affairs for Clean Fuels Alliance America, advocating for Congressional support of policy priorities. Cobb has helped the industry identify and foster new Congressional champions and organize successful advocacy events. He also leads industry efforts to secure federal support for biodiesel infrastructure in emerging markets and currently serves as Treasurer of the Clean Fuels Political Action Committee. Previously, Cobb was Director of Federal Affairs for CHS Inc., the nation’s largest farmer owned cooperative. He also served as   Legislative Assistant for agriculture and natural resources issues to Senator Max Baucus (D-MT) and on the staff of Senator Mary Landrieu (D-LA).