Expands eligibility for designation as land used in agricultural production by lowering the average gross sale value of the land to $20,000 or more in certain cases.
Summary
Bill A07742 amends the agriculture and markets law in New York to expand the eligibility for land designation as used in agricultural production. Specifically, it lowers the average gross sales value threshold from $50,000 to $20,000 for certain types of agricultural operations, including those involving crops, livestock, and apiary products. This change aims to support smaller agricultural operations and encourage new entrants into the farming sector by making it easier for them to qualify for agricultural assessments.
Impact
The bill's impact on state laws includes a modification of the criteria for agricultural land assessment, which could result in a broader range of properties qualifying for agricultural tax benefits. This change may lead to increased participation in agricultural production, particularly among smaller farms and new agricultural ventures, thereby potentially enhancing the agricultural economy in New York.
Sentiment
The general sentiment around Bill A07742 appears to be supportive among agricultural advocates who believe that lowering the sales threshold will benefit small farmers and promote agricultural diversity. However, there may be concerns from larger agricultural operations about the implications of increased competition and the potential for reduced tax revenue.
Contention
Notable points of contention may arise from larger agricultural producers who fear that the bill could lead to an influx of smaller operations that might not have the same economic impact. Additionally, there may be discussions regarding the potential for abuse of the lowered threshold by operations that do not genuinely engage in agricultural production.
Includes certain land that is owned or rented as a farm operation for the production for sale of crops, livestock or livestock products as land used in agricultural production.
Includes certain land that is owned or rented as a farm operation for the production for sale of crops, livestock or livestock products as land used in agricultural production.
Gross production tax; property exempt from ad valorem tax as used in the production of material subject to gross production tax; expanding exempt property. Effective date.
Revises elements of offense of agricultural trespass, expands number and type of activities constituting agricultural trespass, and expands definition of "lands" susceptible to agricultural trespass.
Revises elements of offense of agricultural trespass, expands number and type of activities constituting agricultural trespass, and expands definition of "lands" susceptible to agricultural trespass.