FARMS; SOLAR AGREEMENT S.B. 277:
SUMMARY OF BILL
REPORTED FROM COMMITTEE
Senate Bill 277 (as reported without amendment)
Sponsor: Senator Kristen McDonald Rivet
Committee: Energy and Environment
CONTENT
The bill would amend Part 361 (Farmland and Open Space Preservation) of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act to codify current Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) policy that allows a solar facility to be a permitted use for the purpose of a farmland development rights agreement. The bill would specify that the solar facility would have to meet certain conditions and that a landowner could not claim the tax credit allowed under Part 361 while a solar facility was active.
BRIEF RATIONALE
Since 2019, MDARD has allowed solar facilities to qualify as permitted uses for a farmland development rights agreement provided under Part 361. According to testimony, MDARD's 2019 policy has been effective in supporting the mission of Part 361 preserving land for agriculture. Codifying the policy would help to ensure that continued success.
Legislative Analyst: Tyler P. VanHuyse
FISCAL IMPACT
The bill would have no fiscal impact on State or local government.
Date Completed: 9-18-23 Fiscal Analyst: Jonah Houtz
This analysis was prepared by nonpartisan Senate staff for use by the Senate in its deliberations and does not constitute an official statement of legislative intent.