Jefferson Reporter

U.S. Senators Katie Britt, Bill Cassidy, Raphael Warnock, and several colleagues have reintroduced bipartisan legislation to support landowners affected by natural disasters. The Disaster Reforestation Act aims to amend the tax code, allowing forest owners to deduct the value of their timber prior to loss from natural disasters.

Senator Britt highlighted the importance of the legislation, stating, "The Disaster Reforestation Act would give landowners the resources and relief to recover from the devastating impacts of natural disasters." She mentioned the ongoing support for Alabama's forest owners and the broader forestry community.

Alabama, home to over 23 million acres of forestland—third in size in the continental United States—relies heavily on forestry, contributing over 111,000 jobs and a $27.7 billion economic output. Of these forests, 93% are privately owned, with consistent growth in tree volume yearly.

Senator Cassidy emphasized the need for such a measure in states familiar with natural disasters. "Louisianans know too well the importance of natural disaster relief," he said, highlighting the necessity of tax adjustments for recovery.

The Act is intended to address gaps in existing relief policies that do not cover economic damage for timber crop destruction. Senator Warnock noted the significance of this for rural communities, especially in the aftermath of severe events like Hurricane Helene. "The bipartisan Disaster Reforestation Act will help lessen the burden on forest owners during a recovery process following a natural disaster," he stated.

The recognition of forestry's role in state economies, particularly in Georgia, remains a key focus. Senator Britt continues to prioritize foresters' needs, recently addressing regulatory issues related to the "waters of the United States."