Bill > S2566

This bill amends the Cooperative Forestry Assistance Act of 1978 to expand the Forest Legacy Program by allowing states to approve qualified organizations to acquire, hold, and manage conservation easements. A conservation easement is a legal agreement that permanently limits land use to protect conservation values. The bill defines a "qualified organization" as a nonprofit entity that: is recognized for tax purposes, operates primarily for conservation purposes, has not been subject to enforcement actions related to conservation easements, and maintains accreditation from a recognized land trust accreditation body. States can request authorization to approve such organizations, which must demonstrate their ability to acquire, monitor, and enforce forestland interests consistent with the program's goals. The bill also includes a reversion clause, allowing the state to reclaim or transfer the conservation easement if the qualified organization fails to meet program requirements, such as being unable to fulfill its responsibilities, modifying the easement inconsistently with program purposes, or improperly transferring the easement to an unauthorized party. This legislation aims to provide more flexibility and options for states in managing forest conservation efforts.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/2566/all-info