AB 1066 the 5 year THP bill, which also allows for two one-year extensions making THPs good for up to 7 years, passed the Assembly late last month on a vote of   53-12 (17 abstaining).

Originally proposed as a 10 year (+2) THP bill, sponsored by Assemblymember Mendoza of Los Angeles, the bill was amended in a compromise in the Assembly Natural Resources Committee. Mendoza’s wife is from Santa Cruz and rumor has it that she has a family member who works for the local mill.

Local Assemblymembers Monning, Beall and Ruskin opposed AB1066, thanks in part to calls and letters from their constituents. Environmentalists still oppose the bill that would increase the time a timber harvest permit is valid from 3 to 5 years. While this helps timberla nd owners by allowing for ‘market-timing’ and submission of larger THPs, it only increases the risk of cumulative impacts to watersheds, fish, wildlife and neighborhoods. And it can’t be good for loggers, log haulers or mill workers.

The Bill will next be heard in the Senate Committee on Natural Resources and Water, where our local Senator sits. Please give Joe Simitian a call and ask him to OPPOSE AB 1066.