A6821
An act to amend the Environmental Conservation Law — 2024-06-06 · Calendar #727
The New York State Senate passed Assembly Bill 6821, sponsored by Assemblymember Lupardo, amending the Environmental Conservation Law to extend state forestland lease terms from five to 10 years. The measure passed 60-0 on a roll call vote. Sen. May, speaking in favor, cited the bill's importance to maple syrup producers in her district, noting that the current five-year lease term is insufficient for long-term sustainable forestland uses. The extended 10-year lease will allow businesses like Dutch Hill Maple Farm to pursue productive activities beyond short-term timber harvesting. The bill takes effect immediately.
PASSED
Ayes: 60
· Nays: N/A
Debate Summary
Sen. May explained her vote in favor of the bill, noting that it addresses a problem with state forestland leases. Currently, businesses can obtain five-year leases suitable for short-term activities like timber harvesting, but longer-term productive uses such as maple syrup production require extended lease terms. The bill extends the lease period to 10 years to facilitate sustainable forestland uses.