Bill > H0343

This bill establishes a framework for leasing State lands to certified citizens of State-recognized Native American Indian tribes for agricultural purposes. The legislation requires the Secretary of Natural Resources to identify suitable State-owned lands for farming that would not disrupt wildlife corridors or timber harvesting, and to publish an inventory of available lands by July 1, 2027. The Secretary is directed to create an application process and issue leases with specific terms, including a maximum initial lease term of five years with potential renewals. Leases will be subject to Required Agricultural Practices guidelines, and the Secretary will have the power to terminate leases for cause. The bill defines key terms such as "farming" (based on existing agricultural regulations) and "State-recognized Native American Indian tribes" and mandates that the Secretary report on potential lease fees to legislative committees by January 1, 2027. Additionally, the bill updates existing land management statutes to explicitly include agricultural land use by tribal citizens. The legislation is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and represents a policy commitment to supporting agricultural opportunities for State-recognized Native American tribes.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2026/H.343