Relative to the use of lumber harvested in the United States for state building projects.
The enactment of SB 438 is expected to have a significant impact on how state-funded construction projects are sourced and managed. While the bill aims to support local lumber industries, it may also present challenges such as potential increases in costs and lead times associated with U.S. lumber sourcing. The Department of Administrative Services has indicated that a substantial portion of lumber used in the state's construction assemblies may currently be imported, mainly from Canada. Transitioning to U.S.-sourced lumber could lead to decreased availability and delayed project timelines, bearing an indeterminable fiscal impact on state expenditures over the coming years.
Senate Bill 438, introduced in the 2024 session, aims to establish a preference for lumber harvested in the United States for use in state-funded building projects in New Hampshire. The bill mandates that unless specific design criteria necessitate the use of imported lumber, all state construction projects should prioritize United States-grown spruce-pine-fir (SPF) lumber. This intent is to bolster local lumber industries and ensure that state projects support domestic resources.
Notable points of contention surrounding SB 438 revolve around its implications for the construction industry and local supply chains. Proponents argue that the preference for U.S.-harvested lumber will enhance local job creation and promote sustainable forestry practices. Conversely, critics express concerns regarding the practicality of the bill, highlighting possible disadvantages such as increased project costs and limited access to materials, which may complicate construction efforts. Ultimately, the debate centers on balancing support for local industries with the economic realities of construction material sourcing.