Sen. Jackson's Bill to Encourage Hiring of American Loggers Wins Senate Approval

Bill would require timber harvesting in state contracts to be performed by American loggers

AUGUSTA – Earlier today, the Maine Senate passed a bill sponsored by Assistant Senate Majority Leader Troy Jackson (D-Allagash) to support American loggers.

“We must promote the hiring of American loggers who for too long have been underemployed as a result of contractors unethically, and at times illegally, hiring Canadian workers instead,” said Senator Jackson.

The measure would prevent the state from contracting for timber harvesting on land under its management if the contractor employs foreign workers for logging.

“In a time when the Legislature is correctly focused on getting Mainers back to work and is examining measures to make sure our workforce can meet the needs of this economy, we have an entire sector of Maine workers who are here and are ready to go,” Senator Jackson continued. “Our laws should encourage hiring them.”

The bill, L.D. 491, “An Act Regarding Timber Harvesting on Land Managed by the Division of Parks and Public Lands,” will face more votes in the House and the Senate.

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