Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) joined Reps. Suzan DelBene (D-WA), Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-PA), and Derek Kilmer (D-WA) today in introducing bipartisan legislation, the Timber Innovation Act (H.R. 5628) that would open up new markets and create jobs for rural economies by providing research, assistance and lower costs for the construction of tall wood buildings throughout the United States.

“Good stewardship within our National Forests should be a priority,” said McMorris Rodgers. “The Timber Innovation Act is a win for rural communities, because it will incentivize forest thinning and forest health management, and reduce wildfires. Encouraging the use of cross laminated timber (CLT) will provide new markets for the production of advanced wood buildings throughout Eastern Washington.”

“Advancing tall wood building construction through the Timber Innovation Act is a win for working families and our environment,” DelBene said. “Technological advancements in cross-laminated timber have made it easier for us to support healthy forests, wildlife habitats and rural economies dependent on forest products. Encouraging the use of green building materials instead of building materials dependent on fossil fuels reduces greenhouse gasses creating a cleaner, healthier environment for future generations.”

“In Pennsylvania’s 5th Congressional District, dozens of small communities depend upon timbering, forest products and revenues generated though the multiple uses of the Allegheny National Forest and privately held lands,” said Thompson. “Responsible forest management will continue to ensure this economic engine is going to remain strong. The Timber Innovation Act will promote wood based products by creating new opportunities for uses and jobs in rural communities.”

“Folks in my region don’t want the top export of our rural communities to be young people,” said Kilmer. “Now we have an opportunity to grow the timber industry in a way that doesn’t put conservation at odds with job creation. With Cross Laminated Timber we can utilize an abundant and sustainable product native to Washington state that connects rural economies to greener urban growth. Our bipartisan bill would make it easier for construction sites across the country to use sturdy, innovative, renewable wood products grown and manufactured on the Olympic Peninsula.”