AF&PA welcomes House approval of Farm Bill

The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) welcomed the passage of the Farm Bill by the U.S. House of Representatives, highlighting its importance for forest management, rural economies, and the stability of the domestic fiber supply chain. The legislation plays a key role in supporting working forests, which provide renewable raw materials for the pulp, paper, packaging, and tissue sectors, while also sustaining employment and industrial activity across the United States.

“AF&PA commends the House for advancing a bipartisan Farm Bill and the leadership of House Agriculture Committee Chairman Glenn “GT” Thompson, as well as the work of lawmakers to move this important legislation forward. The Farm Bill plays a central role in supporting forest conservation, rural economies and a reliable fiber supply for U.S. manufacturing,” said Heidi Brock, President and CEO of AF&PA.

The association underlined the relevance of the measure for maintaining a strong domestic manufacturing base and promoting responsible forest management practices.

“For pulp, paper, packaging and tissue products manufacturers, the Farm Bill helps sustain working forests that provide renewable raw materials for everyday products. It also supports the hardworking Americans who make these products and keep our manufacturing facilities running. We support policies that strengthen forest management and promote long-term forest health while maintaining a strong domestic manufacturing base,” Brock added.

AF&PA also noted positively that the House did not adopt an amendment related to the Renewable Fuel Standard and woody biomass, emphasising the importance of balanced policy approaches across the forest value chain.

“AF&PA also appreciates the House’s decision not to adopt an amendment related to the Renewable Fuel Standard and woody biomass. We recognize differing perspectives across the forest value chain and the need for continued dialogue, and we stand ready to work collaboratively with lawmakers and stakeholders on market based policies that avoid unintended consequences for forest products manufacturing,” Brock stated.

As the legislative process continues, the association confirmed its intention to remain actively engaged with policymakers. “As the Farm Bill process continues, AF&PA looks forward to engaging with Congress to advance solutions that support working forests, domestic manufacturing and the communities that depend on them.”