Bill > HR2771

This bill amends the Cooperative Forestry Assistance Act of 1978 to provide more flexibility to states in managing conservation easements under the Forest Legacy Program. Specifically, the bill allows states to request authorization from the Secretary of Agriculture to approve qualified organizations to acquire, hold, and manage conservation easements. To be eligible, these organizations must demonstrate their ability to acquire, monitor, and enforce forestland interests in line with the Forest Legacy Program's goals. The bill establishes strict criteria for these qualified organizations, including being a tax-exempt conservation organization, having a proven track record of conservation work, and maintaining accreditation from the Land Trust Accreditation Commission. If a qualified organization fails to meet its responsibilities or modifies the conservation easement in a way that contradicts the program's purposes, the state can require the easement to revert back to state control or be transferred to another eligible organization. The bill also makes some technical corrections to the existing law, such as adjusting cross-references and clarifying language. This change aims to enhance state-level management of forest conservation efforts and provide more options for protecting forestlands.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/2771/all-info