GOVERNOR HOCHUL’S VETO APPLAUDED BY NRLA FOR ACKNOWLEDGING VALID CONCERNS OF THE LBM INDUSTRY

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

GOVERNOR HOCHUL’S VETO APPLAUDED BY NRLA FOR ACKNOWLEDGING VALID CONCERNS OF THE LBM INDUSTRY 

Action Preserves Good-paying Jobs, Secures Supply Chains, and Ensures Industry Viability 

Rensselaer NY, Dec. 23, 2023 – The Northeastern Retail Lumber Association (NRLA) and its members extend profound gratitude to Governor Kathy Hochul for her decisive action in vetoing Senate Bill 4859-A/Assembly Bill 5682-A, The New York Tropical Deforestation-Free Procurement Act. The NRLA applauds Governor Hochul for her exemplary leadership and responsiveness to the valid concerns expressed by the Lumber and Building Materials (LBM) industry, highlighting her commitment to understanding and addressing the nuanced challenges faced by our sector. 

Leadership and Responsiveness 

Governor Hochul’s decision to veto the bill underscores her commitment to leadership that is both decisive and responsive. By listening to the concerns raised by the NRLA and its members, the Governor has demonstrated a dedication to understanding the intricacies of the LBM industry in New York. 

Protecting Supply Chains and Jobs 

The NRLA had voiced significant concerns about the potential disruptions to supply chains, the impact on good-paying jobs, and the affordability of housing that could have resulted from the bill’s provisions. Governor Hochul’s decision to veto this legislation demonstrates an acute understanding of the delicate balance required to address environmental goals without compromising economic stability and growth. Doug Ford, Chair of the NRLA remarked on the matter, emphasizing, “This action not only safeguards over 16,000 good-paying jobs in the LBM industry, but also avoids further exacerbating the soaring prices of goods.“ 

Looking Ahead 

The NRLA and its members look forward to continued collaboration with Governor Hochul on future initiatives that promote sustainable practices while supporting the growth and vitality of the lumber and building materials sector in New York. Doug Ford expressed deep appreciation, stating, “We are sincerely thankful for Governor Hochul’s exceptional leadership and responsiveness to the concerns of the LBM industry. Her decision to veto the bill reflects a thoughtful and considerate approach to balancing environmental objectives with the practical considerations of our industry.” 

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