Bill > HB2717

This bill requires businesses constructing solar or wind energy projects that reduce the size of an agricultural operation to provide comprehensive compensation to the agricultural lessee. Specifically, the business must compensate the lessee for five key areas: loss of profits, the value of any executed conservation measures, reduction in the agricultural operation's overall value, relocation costs, and expenses related to mitigating losses from the reduced agricultural operation. Before receiving compensation, the agricultural lessee must provide credible evidence documenting the expenses. The bill defines an "agricultural lessee" as someone leasing state or federal lands for agricultural purposes. The legislative intent behind this bill is to protect agricultural operations in Arizona and ensure that lessees are fairly compensated when energy projects impact their farming or ranching activities. By mandating these compensation requirements, the bill aims to balance the development of renewable energy projects with the economic interests of agricultural operators.

Government Affairs

https://apps.azleg.gov/BillStatus/BillOverview/82854