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 what qualifies as 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 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 other defined place used for agricultural operations, and "Farmer" as a natural person who is either the owner or principal operator of a farm engaging in agricultural operations. The definition of "Agricultural operations" is expanded to include various commercial enterprises related to horticulture, forestry, dairy farming, aquaculture, and livestock raising.

Significant changes include the removal of previous requirements for farmers, such as the necessity to file a 1040F U.S. Internal Revenue Form, hold a state farm tax number, and earn a gross income of $10,000 from farm products over the past four years. The income threshold is lowered to $2,500, and the definition of a farm is expanded to include all agricultural operations, including forestry. The bill also clarifies the procedure for approval by the director regarding normal farming and ranching activities. These amendments aim to streamline the process for agricultural operations while maintaining environmental protections, with the act set to take effect immediately upon passage.