S.480 - Timber Harvesting Restoration Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
The Timber Harvesting Restoration Act of 2025 (S.480) aims to increase timber harvesting on National Forest System (NFS) lands. It requires forest supervisors in units where timber sales are below two-thirds of the allowable sale quantity to submit harvesting improvement reports to the Chief of the Forest Service. These reports must identify areas for increased harvesting and actionable steps to achieve this goal.
Expected Effects
The Act seeks to boost timber production by mandating assessments and action plans from underperforming NFS units. It also directs the Secretary of Agriculture to allocate resources to support increased timber sales. The Act includes provisions for progress review and potential waivers based on plausible reasons for lack of progress.
Potential Benefits
- Potential for increased timber supply, which could lower timber prices.
- Job creation in the forestry and related industries.
- Revenue generation for local communities from timber sales.
- Reduced wildfire risk through active forest management (thinning).
- Potential for improved forest health through selective harvesting.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential negative impacts on wildlife habitats and biodiversity.
- Increased soil erosion and water pollution from logging activities.
- Conflicts with recreational users of National Forest System lands.
- Potential for unsustainable harvesting practices if not properly managed.
- Increased carbon emissions from deforestation and timber processing.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The Act appears to align with Congress's power under Article I, Section 8, Clause 1 of the Constitution, which grants Congress the power to "lay and collect Taxes, Duties, Imposts and Excises, to pay the Debts and provide for the common Defence and general Welfare of the United States." Managing national forests and generating revenue from timber sales can be argued as promoting the general welfare. However, potential environmental impacts could raise concerns related to the government's responsibility to protect natural resources for future generations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).