Rhode Island House Bill H6676

Rhode Island 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/6/22
• Refer: 1/6/22

Caption

Levy And Assessment Of Local Taxes

Impact

This legislation is poised to significantly impact how counties and cities assess taxes on land designated for agricultural and renewable energy purposes. The requirement that agricultural land converted for renewable energy remains classified as farmland as long as only a maximum of 20% is used for this purpose could stimulate the dual-use of land for farming and energy generation. Such provisions aim to bolster the economic viability of farming operations while promoting renewable energy, thereby aligning with broader energy sustainability goals.

Summary

House Bill H6676, concerning taxation under the Levy and Assessment of Local Taxes, aims to refine the tax treatment of renewable energy resources and their relationship with agricultural land. The bill proposes amendments to existing laws to specifically categorize renewable energy systems as tangible property for tax assessment purposes, while ensuring that the real property on which these systems are located remains exempt from reclassification or reassessment, except in specific cases relating to farmland. This strategic move is intended to encourage the development of renewable energy initiatives by offering consistent and predictable tax treatment to developers and municipalities alike.

Contention

However, the bill has encountered opposition from some stakeholders who argue that it could potentially undermine local control over land-use decisions, particularly in agricultural contexts. Critics fear that by preempting local tax assessment autonomy, the bill could diminish the ability of municipalities to tailor regulations and tax policies that best serve their communities. Additionally, concerns have been raised regarding the long-term implications for agricultural productivity and land management if land use is incentivized toward renewable energy at the expense of traditional farming practices.