Rep. Bruce Westerman, R-Ark., this week introduced the Strong American Wood (SAW) Act, federal legislation he said would expand markets for U.S.-grown timber, counter what he described as unfair foreign competition and ease regulatory burdens on domestic mills.
What Westerman says the bill will do
Westerman framed the measure as a three-pronged effort to shore up a sector he called a leading economic driver for Arkansas: strengthening demand for American wood, leveling the playing field in trade and cutting regulatory hurdles that he said have contributed to mill closures and job losses.
“From seed to sawmill, our trees play an integral role in our daily lives,” Rep. Bruce Westerman said. “This week, we recognize National Forest Products Week and celebrate the economic, environmental, and social impact of this vital industry.”
The congressman said the SAW Act would incentivize homebuilding that uses domestic lumber and create new markets for woody biomass. He also said the bill would pursue fair-trade policies to prevent imports from undermining national security and domestic producers.
- Demand: incentives for using American lumber in home construction and expanded markets for woody biomass;
- Trade: measures intended to ensure imports do not undercut U.S. producers or threaten national security;
- Regulation: steps to remove what Westerman described as regulatory obstacles that harm mills and investment.
Westerman tied the legislation to what he characterized as an urgent moment for the industry, saying mill closures and reduced production threaten jobs and the health of U.S. forests by raising wildfire risk. He said a stronger market for domestic products encourages forest stewardship.
The announcement coincided with recognition of National Forest Products Week, which Westerman cited as an occasion to underscore the sector’s ties to Arkansas jobs, paper and pulp operations and rural economies. The statement noted concerns about “subsidized foreign goods” and a “burdensome domestic regulatory environment” but did not specify bill numbers or legislative partners.
Details such as the bill number, committee referrals, co-sponsors and a congressional timeline for floor action were not included in Westerman’s statement.
Westerman represents Arkansas’ 4th Congressional District, a region with significant forestry, timber and wood-products operations. The SAW Act, as described by Westerman, aims to use federal policy to support those industry and conservation goals.
