Tennessee House Bill HB1696

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/8/24
• Refer: 1/10/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 67, Chapter 5, Part 10, relative to the classification of agricultural land.

Impact

If enacted, HB1696 will directly modify the existing agricultural land classification criteria, which may have significant implications for property owners across Tennessee. This change could potentially increase the percentage of land recognized as agricultural, thereby influencing tax responsibilities and land use regulations. As property owners seek to comply with the new standards, there may be an upsurge in land reassessments and an increased incentive to combine smaller plots for agricultural eligibility, potentially affecting local economies and agricultural productivity.

Summary

House Bill 1696 seeks to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically targeting the classification of agricultural land. The proposed changes redefine what constitutes agricultural land by establishing new size requirements for eligibility. Under the bill, properties must now consist of a single tract of at least fifteen acres, or two noncontiguous tracts in the same county that together total at least fifteen acres. The inclusion of woodlands and wastelands in this assessment signifies a broader recognition of land types that can contribute to agricultural designations.

Contention

While supporters of HB1696 argue that the bill provides clearer guidelines for agricultural land classification, some critics voice concerns that stricter eligibility thresholds may inadvertently exclude smaller-scale farmers or landowners who do not meet the new acreage requirements. Opponents may argue that the legislation could limit access to agricultural loans or benefits for those with smaller plots, thus impacting small farming communities. The variation in land sizes and uses presents a challenge, highlighting a potential tension between agricultural consolidation and the preservation of small-scale farming operations.