East Idaho Times

U.S. Senators Jim Risch (R-Idaho) and Angus King (I-Maine), along with U.S. Representatives Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-Pa.) and Jared Golden (D-Maine), have introduced the Future Logging Careers Act. This bipartisan legislation aims to support family-run timber businesses by allowing teenagers in logging families to gain practical experience in the industry. The proposed act would amend the Fair Labor Standards Act, permitting 16 and 17-year-olds to work in specific mechanized logging operations under parental supervision, similar to existing exemptions for farming families.

Senator Risch emphasized the importance of family-run businesses in Idaho's logging industry, stating that current laws hinder them from passing down their trade. "The Future Logging Careers Act empowers timber families to prepare the next generation of loggers to properly manage our forests and support rural economies," he said.

Senator King highlighted Maine's historical connection with logging, noting its role in creating jobs and supporting local economies. He stated, "As we prepare for the next generation of Maine loggers, we should provide opportunities for young people to explore this exciting field in a safe and supervised way."

Representative Thompson expressed his support by acknowledging Pennsylvania's leadership in forestry. He said, "By allowing young men and women to work alongside their families in this industry, we're ensuring that the skills, knowledge, and traditions of logging can be passed down to the next generation."

Representative Golden spoke about Maine's forest heritage and the need for personal investment through hands-on experience. He remarked that the legislation would create opportunities for young Mainers to continue this tradition.

Additional cosponsors include U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), and John Cornyn (R-Texas). The American Loggers Council and the Associated Logging Contractors of Idaho have voiced their support for the act.

Scott Dane, Executive Director of the American Loggers Council, stressed the importance of multi-generational knowledge transfer within the timber industry. He noted that workforce development is essential for maintaining resources necessary for forest management services.

Clete Edmunson, Executive Director of the Associated Logging Contractors of Idaho, highlighted labor shortages in Idaho’s Forest Products Industry. He mentioned that many young individuals raised in family logging operations are ready to work at 16 but are restricted by outdated laws from 1938.

The Future Logging Careers Act seeks to address these challenges by providing similar opportunities afforded to family farms within agricultural sectors.