The "Forestry Parity Act" aims to provide equal treatment for forestry and forest product operations as farming and agriculture operations. It establishes a new chapter in the General Laws titled "Forestry and Forest Product Operations" and includes provisions such as a short title, legislative findings, purpose, definitions, declaration of policies, and intentional and negligent actions. The bill also amends existing laws to clarify the purposes of the Rhode Island Commerce Corporation and establish registration requirements for forestry vehicles.

In addition, the bill makes amendments related to economic development, taxation, and land preservation. It establishes a new agency to promote and encourage the development of industries and businesses in the state, amends the law regarding the assessment of tangible personal property for taxation purposes, allows cities and towns to tax forestry product operations buildings at a rate reflecting the actual costs of providing services, and amends the law related to the taxation of farm, forest, and open space land to encourage preservation and prevent forced conversion.

Overall, this bill aims to provide equal treatment for forestry and forest product operations, promote economic development, and encourage land preservation in Rhode Island.

Statutes affected:
5784  SUB A: 42-64-5, 44-5-12.1, 44-27-1, 45-24-37
5784: 42-64-5, 44-5-12.1, 44-18-30, 44-27-1, 45-24-37