Texas Forestry Association Legislator of the Year
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| Incoming TFA President David Alders, Congressman Sessions, and TFA Executive Director Rob Hughes |
On Wednesday, I was honored as the “Legislator of the Year” by the Texas Forestry Association at their 110th TFA Annual Conference. I am proud of my record in supporting legislation that benefits foresters, landowners, and the entire forestry industry. Many communities in TX-17 rely on forestry-related jobs and forests are vital to our economy in providing essential supplies to other sectors. The regulatory landscape surrounding forestry is complex, and I shared some federal updates on legislation that affects forest stakeholders. The Farm Bill aims to address the issue that private landowners lack guaranteed federal funding support following a disaster. This legislation also promotes active forest management and enhances market prospects for forest projects. The Safe Routes Act of 2023 aims to improve safety and efficiency for logging trucks by permitting compliant vehicles to operate on interstate highways. Finally, the Death Tax Repeal Act, of which I am an original cosponsor, addresses impending chances to federal estate tax exemptions. The changes for forest owners represent a devastating tax increase on multi-generational investments. This bill aims to repeal generation-skipping transfer taxes to alleviate burdens on hardworking forest and landowners. I have been an active supporter of forestry in Texas, bringing House Agricultural Committee Chairman GT Thompson to TX-17 last year to see first-hand the forestry work happening here. I am committed to continuing dialogue between landowners and policy makers to ensure our government is working for the people.
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