SEN JOHN KENNEDY AND CONGRESS WOMAN JULIA LETLOW CO-AUHOR THE WILDFIRE REDUCTION MARKET EXPANSION BILL OF 2026
WILDFIRE REDUCTION MARKET EXPANSION BILL OF 2026
KEY PROVISIONS:
Expands markets for low-value wood: includes logging residuals, sawdust, wood chips, bark, shavings, paper manufacturing residuals, and other qualifying byproducts to qualify for renewable fuel production under the RENEWABLE FUEL STANDARD.
Creates value for forest management materials: Allows eligible brush, slash, storm debris, and material from thinning and wildfire-prevention projects to qualify as renewable biomass.
Supports rural economies: Creates potential revenue opportunities for loggers, private forest landowners, sawmills and wood-processing facilities.
Helps reduce wildfire risks: Makes it more economically feasible to remove excess vegetation and hazardous fuels from forests.
Supports renewable fuel production: Encourages the use of eligible woody biomass as feedstock for advanced biofuels.
WHY IS THIS BILL IMPORTANT?
This bill could help create additional markets for low-grade timber and residual wood that might otherwise have little or no commercial value. For Louisiana's logging industry, expanding markets means more potential outlets for wood, additional revenue opportunities for landowners and loggers, and stronger demand throughout the forest products supply chain. This bill establishes a pathway for more qualifying woody materials to participate in renewable fuel markets.
Thank you Senator Kennedy and Congresswoman Letlow!!!
Contact your Congressman and ask them to support The Wildfire Reduction/Market Expansion bill of 2026!!
