Bill > H3093

This bill proposes several key reforms to encourage forest land enrollment and improve forest management in Massachusetts. The main provisions include repealing the "right of first refusal" when landowners withdraw from the Chapter 61/61A tax programs, reducing the minimum forest acreage for the Chapter 61 program, providing funding for new forest management plans, and automatically granting "green certification" to enrolled landowners. The bill also aims to reform the Forest Cutting Law to prioritize long-term forest management, supersede local forestry regulations with a "right to practice forestry" rule, and eliminate certain mitigation requirements. Additionally, the bill seeks to reform the forester licensing process, improve the Department of Conservation and Recreation's forestry operations, encourage forest industry development, and provide funding for forest health initiatives. Overall, the bill aims to promote sustainable forestry practices and increase forest land protection in Massachusetts.

Budget and Finance

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/192/H3093