Connecticut House Bill HB06137

Connecticut 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/20/17
• Refer: 1/20/17

Caption

An Act Concerning The Classification Of Certain Privately Owned Undeveloped Land As Open Space Land.

Impact

The passage of HB 6137 would positively affect local land management and conservation efforts. By categorizing larger undeveloped parcels as open space, the bill encourages landowners to engage in conservation practices, potentially leading to increased public accessibility to these areas. Moreover, classifying such lands as open space may also help reduce the tax burden on landowners, providing an incentive for the preservation of natural habitats and landscapes.

Summary

House Bill 6137 aims to amend the existing statutory framework regarding the classification of privately owned undeveloped land within Connecticut. Specifically, the bill requires municipal assessors to classify any privately owned undeveloped land of ten acres or more that has an approved conservation plan as open space land. This classification would have implications for property taxation and the preservation of natural spaces, aligning with broader environmental goals.

Contention

While the intent of HB 6137 is widely supported by environmental advocates and conservationists, there are concerns regarding its potential impacts on property rights and local tax revenues. Critics may argue that this classification could limit landowners' ability to develop their properties as they see fit, raising issues of autonomy and economic opportunity. Additionally, municipalities might face challenges if property tax revenues decrease due to changes in land assessments, leading to budgetary constraints for local governments.