The bill amends subsections 8 and 9 of section 57-02-27.2 of the North Dakota Century Code, which pertains to the assessment of agricultural property. In subsection 8, the bill introduces a new consideration for local assessors when determining the relative value of assessment parcels: the actual use of the property for cropland or noncropland purposes by the owner. This replaces the previous language that also mentioned actual use but was listed as a lower priority in the assessment criteria. Additionally, subsection 9 outlines the responsibilities of the county director of tax equalization in developing a schedule of modifiers for agricultural property assessments, which must be approved by the state supervisor of assessments.

Furthermore, the bill establishes a process for property owners to request adjustments to their agricultural property assessments. Owners must file an initial application with the assessor, including a verified statement of facts that demonstrate eligibility for an adjustment based on the approved schedule of modifiers. The assessor is required to consider these applications when determining the agricultural value of each parcel and may periodically review the property to assess the continued appropriateness of any adjustments. The bill is set to take effect for taxable years beginning after December 31, 2025.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 57-02-27.2
Prepared by the Legislative Council staff for Senator Walen: 57-02-27.2
FIRST ENGROSSMENT: 57-02-27.2
Enrollment: 57-02-27.2