The bill amends the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act by updating Section 52706, which governs the sale of certain state lands to public agencies for forestry or recreational purposes. It specifies that the amount of land sold must not exceed what is necessary for the public agency and that any land sold must be suitable for its intended use. The bill introduces new language requiring that if prime land is sold, it must be used solely for forestry or recreational purposes, and if it ceases to be used for those purposes, it must revert back to the state. Additionally, the bill outlines the process for relinquishing reversionary interests in municipal forestland and establishes conditions under which such land can be conveyed.

Key changes include the requirement for public agencies to conduct public hearings before conveying municipal forestland and the stipulation that any conveyance must be approved by the department. The bill also clarifies the distribution of proceeds from the sale of municipal forestland, mandating that 50% of the proceeds be retained by the public agency and the other half submitted to the Department of Treasury. Furthermore, it defines terms such as "municipal forestland," "prime land," and "recreational purpose," ensuring clarity in the application of the law. The amendments take effect 90 days after being enacted.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 324.52706
As Passed by the Senate: 324.52706