Bill > A06076

This bill aims to streamline the process of state land acquisitions for conservation purposes by modifying existing laws to allow the attorney general more flexibility in approving land titles. Specifically, the bill authorizes the attorney general to approve land titles where the current owner can convey a marketable title and to accept title insurance from a reputable commercial insurer that covers potential title defects. The legislative intent emphasizes the need to accelerate land acquisitions in support of the state's Climate Action Plan and the "30 by 30" land conservation law, which seeks to conserve 30% of land by 2030. By allowing the use of title insurance, the bill intends to reduce the financial burden on land trusts, which often hold land in trust for extended periods, and to reduce the backlog of pending land acquisitions that could threaten the solvency of these organizations. The changes apply to land acquisitions by both the Department of Environmental Conservation and the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, and the bill will take effect immediately upon passage.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A6076