HB 5117

Abstract

Creates the Deforestation-Free Procurement Act. Prohibits the State and any governmental agency, political subdivision, or public benefit corporation of the State from purchasing or obtaining for any purpose any tropical hardwoods or tropical hardwood products. Prohibits a bid proposal or solicitation, request for bid or proposal, or contract for the construction of any public work, building maintenance, or improvement for or on behalf of the State and any government agency, political subdivision, or public benefit corporation of the State from requiring or permitting the use of any tropical hardwood or tropical wood product. Provides that every contract entered into by a State agency or authority that includes the procurement of any product comprised of a tropical forest-risk commodity shall require the contractor to confirm that the commodity furnished to the State under the contract was not extracted from, grown, derived, harvested, reared, or produced on land where tropical or boreal deforestation or primary forest degradation occurred on or after January 1, 2022. Sets forth forest policies that large contractors must adopt. Provides for sanctions against a contractor or subcontractor who violates the Act. Requires the Department of Central Management Services to adopt rules to implement the Act. Requires the Director of the Department to submit an assessment to the General Assembly regarding the details of all contracts certified under the Act. Requires the Environmental Protection Agency to complete a study to determine whether the requirements of the Act shall apply to tropical forest-risk commodities originating in boreal forests. Requires the Director to issue a report every 2 years on the implementation of the Act. Makes other changes. Effective immediately.