March 25, 2020

The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) recently included the forest products industry in guidance issued on the "Identification of Essential Critical Infrastructure Workers During COVID-19 Response." The memo designated "workers who support the manufacture and distribution of forest products, including, but not limited to timber, paper, and other wood products” as essential and urged them to maintain operations.

SAF applauds this designation and encourages all states to specifically exempt forest products industry businesses and workers when considering shelter-in-place orders or other restrictions. 

"We cannot express our gratitude enough to our members and others across the industry who are working hard to continue providing essential goods and services to the American people during these trying times," said SAF CEO Terry Baker. "Thank you all and please be safe."