New Mexico House Bill HB553

New Mexico 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/20/25
• Report Pass: 2/25/25
• Report Pass: 3/8/25
• Engrossed: 3/13/25
• Report Pass: 3/18/25
• Enrolled: 3/22/25
• Chaptered: 4/7/25
• Passed: 4/7/25

Caption

Timber Grading Act

Impact

The bill aims to improve the quality and traceability of timber used in construction by requiring that all timber be graded and labeled by certified graders who are employed by or own a sawmill. The provisions of this bill will allow structural timber that is graded and labeled in-state to be accepted as equivalent to timber that has been graded by accredited agencies, potentially increasing the marketability of local timber products. The introduction of a grading system based on established national standards will help ensure that the timber meets necessary building codes and regulations.

Summary

House Bill 553, known as the Timber Grading Act, seeks to establish a regulatory framework for the grading and labeling of structural timber in New Mexico. The bill introduces a certification program for graders, which will be crucial for ensuring that timber used in construction meets established safety and quality standards. This act aims to promote the use of in-state milled timber in residential and commercial construction, thereby supporting local sawmills and the timber industry within the state.

Contention

While the bill has the potential to bolster the local timber industry, there may be contention regarding the implementation of the grading system and the associated costs. The grading certificate program will involve fees that could be a burden for smaller sawmills. Furthermore, the requirement for adherence to specific grading practices may raise concerns among some stakeholders who feel that it could limit their operational flexibility. The bill's effectiveness will ultimately depend on the successful establishment of the grading program and the level of support it receives from the timber community.