CA AB2518

Requires the Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, in consultation with the State Board of Forestry and Fire Protection, to identify barriers to in-state mass timber and innovative forest products production by January 31, 2020, and develop solutions aligned with California's climate objectives.

Defines "innovative forest products" as products made from small-diameter woody materials, brush, and dead trees removed from fire hazard areas and milled in California, and "mass timber" as prefabricated wood products with at least three cross-oriented layers bonded together and manufactured in California.

Requires the Department to collaborate with a working group on expanding wood product markets, other state agencies, apprenticeship programs, community colleges, and independent experts on workforce training and job creation for mass timber and innovative forest products.

Directs the Forest Health Task Force to develop recommendations by July 1, 2020, for siting additional wood product manufacturing facilities, including a proposal for at least one new mass timber production facility and identification of necessary private investment incentives.

Establishes legislative intent that new mass timber facilities be located adjacent to high fire hazard zones, generate workforce training opportunities, and be sited in areas near large fires since 2005 or economically disadvantaged communities.