REAUTHORIZATION OF PL 106-393

The process is underway in both halls of Congress to reauthorize PL 106-393, or “Secure Rural Schools and Communities Self-Determination Act of 2000.”  This law you will recall provides a safety-net payment for the management public schools and roads within the boundaries of national forests, which resulted from lost revenue shares due to a declining timber harvest.  The current law is scheduled to sunset in 2006.

 Senators Larry Craig (R-ID) and Ron Wyden (D-OR), the co-sponsors of the original law are running the legislation up the flagpole once again in hopes that if will be extended for another seven years.  Congressmen Greg Walden (R-OR) and Alan Boyd (D-FL) are co-sponsoring their version in the House simultaneously.

 The AFA harbors mixed opinions regarding this legislation for reasons that are quite understandable.  First and foremost, we believe strongly that the 1908 Act, which provides 25% revenue shares, aligns more closely with congressional intention, often referred to as the “compact with the people.”  That compact recognized the financial burden place on school districts and townships through the loss of taxable property and ensured national forests would produce enough wood to off-set that loss. 

 The law in effect forged a relationship between the Forest Service and local communities that helped promote the culture and economy of the region.  Along with the 25% revenue share, timber harvesting created jobs and promoted business activity, which in turn enhanced community growth and vitality, all considered a part of Congress’ compact with the people.

 Second, there is an uneasy feeling about being on the “public dole” so to speak.  To have school districts and townships be paid a set amount of money directly from the US Treasury or in effect directly from the taxpayers circumvents the entire intent of the compact.  Not only are the taxpayers burdened with the responsibility to fund the safety-net, but the Forest Service is dismissed from their fiduciary responsibility.  They no longer remain a vital player in the culture and economy of local communities.  This clearly was not the intention of the founding fathers of our national forest.

 Unfortunately, we must accept the reality of the day.  If the Forest Service will no longer meet its obligation, we accept the handout for survival sake.  Equally unfortunate is the fact that public entitlements rarely last forever.  Taxpayers eventually say enough is enough.