The "Structural Wood Grading Act" establishes a framework for the grading and certification of structural wood milled in New Mexico. The act defines key terms such as "building inspector," "certificate," "grader," and "structural wood," and outlines the responsibilities of the forestry division in implementing a grading system. This includes the development of a structural wood grading licensure program, which will train graders and issue licenses to those who complete the program. The division is also authorized to charge fees to fund the program and can issue licenses to individuals with relevant certifications or degrees, even if they have not completed the program.

Under the act, graders are required to prepare written certificates for graded structural wood, detailing essential information such as species, quantity, and processing location. This certification process ensures that the wood meets applicable building code requirements and allows for its use in construction throughout the state. The act stipulates that graded wood can be used in housing and that the end user must provide the grading certificate to building inspectors, thereby equating in-state graded wood with that stamped by accredited agencies.