Governor Brian P. Kemp signed a major package of forestry and natural resources legislation Thursday at the Georgia Forestry Association headquarters in Forsyth, highlighting what industry leaders are calling a major boost for Georgia’s forestry economy and rural communities.

The centerpiece of the package is House Bill 134, known as the “Keep Georgia Forested Act,” which supporters say will help attract new forestry manufacturing investment, speed up hiring, and strengthen Georgia’s standing as the nation’s top forestry state.

Georgia Forestry Association President and CEO Tim Lowrimore said the legislation delivers important support for both forestry businesses and landowners across the state.

The new law makes Georgia’s existing Jobs and Investment Tax Credits transferable for forestry manufacturers during a five-year window, allowing companies earlier access to capital during startup and expansion phases. Supporters believe the move will encourage faster economic growth in rural Georgia communities.

Governor Kemp also signed several additional forestry-related measures backed by the Georgia Forestry Association.

House Bill 983 provides clearer regulations for prescribed burning used in forestry operations. Forestry officials say prescribed burns are critical for reducing wildfire risks, protecting communities, and maintaining healthy forests — especially following recent wildfire activity across South Georgia.

Senate Bill 306 strengthens protections for landowners participating in Georgia’s Conservation Use Valuation Assessment and Forest Land Protection Act programs. The legislation allows landowners to participate in carbon credit programs without jeopardizing tax agreements and improves notification and reinstatement procedures for property covenants.

House Resolution 1008 ratifies updates to Georgia’s statewide water management plan, including reforms designed to ensure forestry and agriculture interests remain represented in regional water planning.

Georgia’s forestry industry remains one of the state’s largest economic drivers, with approximately 22 million acres of commercially available forestland supporting more than 141,000 jobs and generating an estimated $59 billion annually.

Industry leaders praised Governor Kemp and legislative leaders for supporting forestry families and protecting working forests across Georgia.