For Immediate Release
4/28/09

Senate Local Government Committee Endorses Bill to Protect Preserved Farmland From Property Tax Increases 

HARRISBURG – The Senate Local Government Committee unanimously approved legislation today that could exempt more preserved farmland from property tax increases, according to the bill’s sponsor Sen. Mike Brubaker (R-36). 

Senate Bill 172 would allow local taxing authorities to exempt farmland properties acquired by a non-profit land trust from property tax millage increases.

Under current law, counties, local governments and school districts have the option to provide an exemption from increases for farmland preserved only through the State Agricultural Conservation Easement Purchase Program. 

"A number of county and local governments have expressed concerns that not all preserved farmland in their area would be eligible for an exemption from property tax increases," Brubaker said. "I am hopeful this bill will protect more farmland and encourage greater participation in non-profit farmland preservation programs across the state." 

Senate Bill 172 will now go to the Senate floor for consideration.

Contact:

Kristin Crawford
 (717)787-4420

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