The bill amends Sections 2-1-20 and 2-1-22 of the General Laws in Chapter 2-1, which governs the agricultural functions of the Department of Environmental Management. It introduces new definitions for terms such as "Agricultural land," "Farm," "Farmer," and "Agricultural operations," clarifying the criteria for what constitutes agricultural activities and land. "Agricultural land" is defined as land on which agricultural operations are being conducted or is suitable for agricultural operations, controlled by a farmer, and has either a USDA Farm Tract/Farm Number or has generated a minimum gross income of $2,500 from farm products in the preceding year.

The bill also redefines "Farm" to include a parcel of land or defined place used for agricultural operations, and "Farmer" as a natural person who is either the owner or principal operator of a farm engaged in agricultural operations. The definition of "Agricultural operations" is expanded to include a variety of commercial enterprises related to agriculture, including forestry, dairy farming, and aquaculture.

Additionally, the bill modifies the criteria for normal farming and ranching activities, stating that these activities are carried out on agricultural land and are exempt from certain regulatory provisions, provided they follow best management practices to minimize environmental impacts. It removes previous requirements for farmers, such as the necessity to file a 1040F U.S. Internal Revenue Form, possess a state farm tax number, and earn a gross income of $10,000 from farm products over the past four years, lowering the income threshold to $2,500. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.