By Bob Katzen
The House 154-0, approved a budget amendment that would expand the existing Conservation Land Tax Credit (CLTC) by raising the annual cap for this program from $2 million to $5 million over a three-year period, beginning on January 1, 2026.
The increase would remain in place until December 31, 2034. This state tax credit provides an incentive for land with significant conservation value to be donated to public and private conservation agencies. The tax credit is equal to 50 percent of the fair market value of the donated property, up to a maximum credit of $75,000.
Supporters said that raising the cap will help the state address the growing demand for participating in the program, which currently has a waiting list of more than two years.
“The CLTC program plays a critical role in conserving land and creating more accessible and open public space,” said amendment sponsor House Republican Minority Leader Rep. Brad Jones (R-North Reading). “To date, the program has helped Massachusetts conserve 15,505 acres of land across 154 municipalities, and in 2023 alone helped protect 558 acres of land. Raising the annual cap will allow for increased participation in the program and promote the conservation of critical natural resources in the state.”
(A “Yes” vote is for the amendment.)
Rep. Christine Barber Yes Rep. Mike Connolly Yes Rep. Paul Donato Yes Rep. Erika Uyterhoeven Yes