WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative John Rose (TN-6) reaffirmed his commitment to helping Tennessee hardwood lumber producers and industry workers in a meeting with United States Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday.

“Secretary Perdue provided an in-depth report on the continued progress of a Phase One trade deal with China, specifically as it relates to the hardwood lumber industry,” Rep. Rose said. “The success of a Phase One agreement is very important to the many family-owned hardwood lumber businesses in Tennessee, and I am grateful for my constituents who brought this critical issue to my attention.”

Rep. Rose met with Secretary Perdue on Wednesday, February 12, 2020, along with twelve of his fellow Members of Congress, including Rep. David Kustoff (TN-8) and Rep. Scott DesJarlais (TN-4).

“I appreciate my friend and colleague, Rep. John Rose, for joining me today at the United States Department of Agriculture to discuss the economic challenges facing the hardwood lumber industry. The hardwood industry supports 685,000 jobs and it deserves our strong support,” said Rep. David Kustoff.

Half of all hardwood lumber produced in the United States is exported to China. In the last several months, sales to that market have declined by 42 percent.

“In Tennessee, nearly 38,000 families rely on the hardwood lumber industry as a way of life,” Rep. Rose continued. “These families depend on sales to China. The severe disruption the hardwood lumber industry has faced in recent months has significantly harmed business owners and families in Tennessee.”

“I thank my friend and fellow Tennessean, Rep. David Kustoff, for his leadership on this critical conversation,” Rep. Rose stated. “Together, we are seeking solutions for Tennesseans, and I know the Trump Administration will continue seeking relief for those working in Tennessee’s hardwood lumber industry, as well.”

U.S. Representative John Rose represents Tennessee’s Sixth Congressional District and resides in Cookeville with his wife, Chelsea, and their son, Guy. The Sixth District includes Cannon, Clay, Coffee, Cumberland, DeKalb, Fentress, Jackson, Macon, Overton, Pickett, Putnam, Robertson, Smith, Sumner, Trousdale, White, and Wilson counties as well as portions of Cheatham and Van Buren counties.