Redefines “farm” by reducing the amount of revenue from farm products required to be sold from ten thousand ($10,000) to two thousand five hundred dollars ($2500).
Impact
By lowering the revenue threshold, Bill S0781 could have far-reaching implications for state agricultural legislation and related environmental regulations. Small farmers and agricultural enterprises that previously did not meet the revenue requirement will now be able to enjoy certain protections and potentially access grants or funds designated for farm-related activities. This inclusion not only supports local economies but may encourage sustainable practices among smaller operations that contribute to local food systems.
Summary
Bill S0781 seeks to redefine the parameters around what constitutes a 'farm' by significantly lowering the revenue threshold from farm products required for classification. Specifically, the bill reduces this threshold from ten thousand dollars ($10,000) to two thousand five hundred dollars ($2,500). This change aims to provide a broader definition of farming, thereby including a wider array of small-scale agricultural operations in the fold of farm operations recognized by the state. This is anticipated to promote more individuals and entities engaging in agricultural activities, enabling them to qualify for various forms of support and recognition.
Contention
Notably, there could be points of contention surrounding this bill. While proponents argue that it supports small farmers and encourages agricultural diversity, critics may be concerned about the environmental implications of expanding the farm definition. There could be debates regarding the impact on land use, especially in areas where agricultural expansion could threaten natural habitats. Additionally, enforcement of environmental management practices becomes crucial when defining larger swathes of land as agricultural, as there could be challenges in ensuring sustainable practices and preventing overreach into ecologically sensitive areas.
Increases insurance coverage for hearing aids from one thousand five hundred dollars to one thousand seven hundred fifty dollars, per ear, for all people regardless of age.
Increases insurance coverage for hearing aids from one thousand five hundred dollars to two thousand dollars, per ear, every three years for all people regardless of age.
Increases the amount of exemption from sales tax for clothing including footwear from two hundred fifty dollars ($250) to five hundred dollars ($500). Effective July 1, 2023.
Increases the penalty for violations of the care of dogs statute to a minimum fine of one hundred dollars ($100) and a maximum fine of one thousand dollars ($1,000) per violation.
Increases the penalty for violations of the care of dogs statute to a minimum fine of one hundred dollars ($100) and a maximum fine of one thousand dollars ($1,000) per violation.
Redefines “farm” by reducing the amount of revenue from farm products required to be sold from ten thousand ($10,000) to two thousand five hundred dollars ($2500).
Provides a definition for "agricultural land" and removes the definition of "farmer" within the chapter on agricultural functions of the department of environmental management.
Requesting The Department Of Land And Natural Resources To Convene And Provide Administrative Assistance To A Desalination Planning Task Force To Determine Whether The Use Of Desalination For Large-scale Water Consumption In The State Is Feasible.
Requesting The Department Of Land And Natural Resources To Convene And Provide Administrative Assistance To A Desalination Planning Task Force To Determine Whether The Use Of Desalination For Large-scale Water Consumption In The State Is Feasible.