In the near future, I plan on introducing legislation that will protect the integrity of our state’s preserved farmland program by ensuring that land acquired through eminent domain is valued fairly and fully reflects the taxpayer’s investment.  

Our Commonwealth has made significant, long-term investments to preserve farmland, safeguarding it from development to ensure food security, economic stability in rural communities, and protection of our agricultural heritage.  

However, current law does not require agencies exercising eminent domain to compensate for the full public investment in that preservation. As a result, there is a risk that land preserved with public funds could be acquired for non-agricultural use, such as infrastructure or utility projects at a significantly devalued rate, undermining both the purpose of farmland preservation and the taxpayer dollars used to secure it. 

My legislation will require fair compensation for preserved farmland taken through eminent domain, protect taxpayer investment, and support our farmers who have chosen to preserve their farmland.  

If we allow preserved farmland to be taken for a fraction of its preserved value, we erode the trust of participating farmers and jeopardize the future of the preservation program itself. This legislation will be a fiscally responsible measure to safeguard the taxpayers’ investment and the farmers’ commitment to preservation.  

Please join me in sponsoring this important piece of legislation.