The Hardwood Federation produces a “D.C. Cheat Sheet” newsletter to keep the industry up-to-date on the latest news from Washington D.C. Check out the July 7th edition below and sign up to receive your copy today.
Federal Court Nixes “Critical Habitat” Flexibility
On Tuesday, a federal court in Northern California rejected a Trump-era rule that narrowed the scope of “critical habitat” under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). The court’s action adds legal support to the Biden Administration’s decision on June 23 to withdraw the Trump-era rule, which limited the definition of “critical habitat” to areas that currently support protected species. In the wake of the court’s decision and the administration’s action, federal agencies will have the power to include acreage not occupied by, but able to support, a protected species as “critical habitat,” thereby expanding the scope of agency power.
West Coast Port Contract Negotiations Continue
Despite the industry’s win with the passage of the “Ocean Shipping Reform Act,” labor contracts between west coast dockworkers and port operators expired on July 1 and threaten to stall progress made on the legislative front. That said, last week, the Pacific Maritime Association, representing the ports, and the International Longshore and Warehouse Union released a statement saying that “cargo will keep moving” until parties reach an agreement. Advocating before the administration to keep the parties’ feet to the fire, the Hardwood Federation joined more than 100 industry allies in a letter to President Biden urging him to use the bully pulpit to assure continuity of operations at the nation’s ports.
HFPAC Hits Homestretch of 100-Day Campaign
In late March, HFPAC kicked off the “100 Quads Campaign,” which aims to raise $100,000 from 100 members during the course of 100 days, including 100 percent participation from Hardwood Federation leadership. As the campaign approaches the finish line, Federation members have so far contributed $85,000, placing the PAC within striking distance of its goal. If you are a Federation member who has submitted prior approval and would like to support the PAC this year, contact Bryan Brendle at 202.463.5186 or at bryan.brendle@hardwoodfederation.com.
Source: Hardwood Federation