Relates to the taxation of structures and buildings essential to the operation of equine operations in certain towns

BILL NUMBER:S3201A

Title of bill

An act in relation to exempting from taxation structures and buildings essential to the operation of a commercial equine operation in certain towns; and providing for the repeal of such provisions upon the expiration thereof

Purpose

In relation to exempting from taxation structures and buildings essential to the operation of a commercial equine operation in certain towns; and providing for the repeal of such provisions upon the expiration thereof.

Summary of provisions

Amends the real property tax law so that structures and buildings essential and actively devoted to the operation of a commercial equine operation during a specified period may be granted tax exempt status at local option.

Justification

Most agricultural lands in the Town of Hempstead operate on extremely small budgets and have not been improved in sometime. As the law currently stands, five acres of land is required to qualify for a tax exemption for capital improvements. Given the high density of the Town Of Hempstead, the agricultural and horticultural lands that are currently in operation have extremely low acreage, lower than what is required. If the RPTL is not amended to allow tax exemptions for capital improvement, the agricultural activity would cease, taking away an important part of Long Island history. Without this amendment agricultural businesses on Long Island would be doomed.

Prior legislative history

S.5412 - Referred to Local Government

Fiscal implications

There would be minimal fiscal implications for the state of New York.

Effective date

This act shall take effect immediately and shall expire and be deemed repealed January 1, 2026.