Sen. Bob Smith is aggressively pushing the commercial logging bill A2837/S1085 and moving fast, adding the bill to Ass committees at the last minute, etc. The bills likely will be up for an Assembly floor vote as early as this Thursday. Jeff Tittle stopped this in the Assembly last time, when it was up for a floor vote and is trying again, but it is harder this time because New Jersey Conservation Foundation caved in to pressure from Conservation Resources, Inc, (Mike Catania), the state’s powerful conservation grant broker and Teaming with Wildlife member the DFW. But we’ve got to lobby Ass. leadership full-out: Non-stop phone calls, etc. Here’s what we need to do between now and Thursday: 1. Regional district leaders reach out directly to designated leadership legislators. Express LOHVNJ strong opposition to bill. Suggest a conference call with legislator or a meeting. I can participate in conference calls with legislators and meetings on short notice. 2. Activate district leaders to get calls in, email. 3. Especial pressure on Oliver and Greenwald, see below, ALL regional leaders should call Oliver and Greenwald: their leadership positions affect entire state. TALKING POINTS PLEASE VOTE ‘NO’ AND ENCOURAGE DEFEAT OF THIS BILL IN THE ASSEMBLY CAUCUS 1. UNPOPULAR: A 2837/S1085 is a commercial logging bill opposed by environmentalist and humane organization 2.LOBBYISTS: Pushed by 2 or 3 lobbyists benefits Division of Fish and Wildlife and a few loggers. 2. NO CONSENSUS. Strong scientific disagreement. Irresponsible to move ahead. 2. WINDOW DRESSING: changes to bill are cosmetic. Forest Stewardship Council “standards” have no teeth and are not enforced through law, rule, or regulation. Forests will be clear cut. OTHER POINTS: 3. The public never wanted this bill and is opposed to commercial logging of state forests. 4. No market for wood.
Posted on: Mon, 17 Jun 2013 17:05:17 +0000
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