Bill > S2084

This bill amends Massachusetts tax law to provide a five-year property tax exemption for structures and buildings essential to commercial agricultural and horticultural operations constructed or reconstructed after July 1, 2015. The exemption applies to buildings directly used for raising, producing, storing, and processing agricultural and horticultural commodities, including structures for housing essential employees, indoor horse exercise arenas, maple syrup production, and honey and beeswax production. The exemption covers the increase in property value resulting from new construction or reconstruction and can last up to 10 years, but requires property owners to file an application with local assessors within one year of completing construction. If the property is converted to non-agricultural use during the exemption period, the owner will be required to pay "roll-back taxes" for the years the property was exempt. The bill defines agricultural activities broadly, including livestock raising, breeding, and commercial horse boarding, and specifies that the exemption does not apply to riding academies or dude ranches. The goal is to support and incentivize agricultural businesses by providing a temporary tax relief for necessary infrastructure investments.

Budget and Finance

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S2084