Bill > S03277

This bill establishes a process for farmers to designate transfer-on-death beneficiaries for farming implements, which are defined broadly as agricultural machinery like tractors, harvesting equipment, and specific farm-related accessories. The bill allows farm implement owners to file a document with the commissioner of agriculture and markets specifying a beneficiary who will automatically receive ownership of the farm implement upon the owner's death, without going through probate. The document must be in writing, signed by all owners and at least two witnesses, and can specify primary and contingent beneficiaries. Owners can change or cancel the beneficiary designation at any time without the beneficiary's consent. The transfer-on-death designation does not affect the current ownership of the property and is not considered a testamentary disposition, meaning it cannot be overridden by a will. The bill provides detailed requirements for the documentation, including specifics about what qualifies as a farm implement, who can be a beneficiary, and the conditions under which ownership transfers. The bill will take effect on the first day of January following its passage, with immediate authorization for preparing implementing regulations.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S3277