Bill > S66

This bill modifies existing Massachusetts laws regarding municipalities' rights of first refusal for agricultural and recreational land by extending and clarifying several key time-related provisions. Specifically, the bill increases the time period for municipalities to exercise their right of first refusal from 120 to 180 days and from 90 to 120 days in different contexts related to land classification under Chapters 61A and 61B. The bill also adds two important clarifying requirements: first, landowners must respond to a purchase and sale contract within 30 days of receiving it, and second, cities or towns are not obligated to purchase properties that are not specifically classified under the relevant agricultural or recreational land chapters. These changes are designed to provide more flexibility and clarity for municipalities when considering the potential acquisition of agricultural and recreational lands, with the bill's preamble noting that it is an emergency measure to ensure municipalities can effectively preserve certain lands. The bill will take effect immediately upon its passage.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S66