ATLANTA (May 6, 2026) — Senate President Pro Tempore Larry Walker III (R–Perry) today praised the signing of House Bill 134, legislation designed to support Georgia’s forestry industry, drive innovation and provide targeted economic relief to rural communities impacted by recent mill closures.
Sponsored in the Senate by Sen. Walker, House Bill 134, known as the “Keep Georgia Forested Act,” creates new, transferable tax incentives for forestry manufacturers, helping businesses reinvest, expand and remain competitive in a challenging economic environment. The legislation builds on language previously carried by President Pro Tempore Walker and delivers a strategic response to job loss and supply chain disruptions following multiple mill closures across the state in 2025.
“Forestry isn’t just an industry in our state; it’s a way of life for many in our rural communities,” said Sen. Walker. “When mills close, it doesn’t just affect one business. It impacts families, local economies and entire supply chains. House Bill 134 illustrates our commitment to supporting Georgia-grown industries, protecting rural jobs and making sure our forestry sector has the tools it needs to thrive.”
House Bill 134 expands Georgia’s existing manufacturing tax credit to include forestry-based manufacturers and allows those credits to be transferred or sold under certain conditions, creating greater flexibility for businesses to access capital and reinvest in operations.
The legislation defines eligible forestry manufacturers to include a wide range of operations, such as sawmills, paper mills, pulp mills, pellet mills, biofuel producers and hardwood flooring companies.
To ensure a targeted, fiscally responsible approach, the bill establishes a five-year sunset provision and imposes annual caps on available credits. It also prioritizes investment in rural and economically distressed areas by offering enhanced incentives for manufacturers located in Tier 1 and Tier 2 counties.
“Georgia has long been a national leader in forestry, and this legislation helps secure that legacy for the future,” Sen. Walker added. “By modernizing our tax structure and encouraging investment in forestry manufacturing, we’re laying the groundwork for long-term growth and stability in communities that depend on this industry.”
House Bill 134 will take effect July 1, 2026. You can find more information about HB 134 here.
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Sen. Larry Walker III serves as President Pro Tempore of the Georgia Senate. He represents the 20thSenate District, which includes Bleckley, Dodge, Dooly, Laurens, Pulaski, Treutlen and Wilcox counties, as well as a portion of Houston County. He may be reached by phone at (404) 656-0095 or by email at Larry.Walker@senate.ga.gov.
For all media inquiries, please reach out to SenatePressInquiries@senate.ga.gov.