SB13-221 Summary

• Establishes a formal application and review process for conservation easement tax credit certificates for donations made on or after January 1, 2014, requiring landowners to obtain certificates before claiming credits.

• Creates the Conservation Easement Tax Credit Certificate Review Fund and authorizes the Division of Real Estate, a director, and the Conservation Easement Oversight Commission to review applications and determine appraisal credibility.

• Sets specific timelines for the review process: division must send deficiency notices within 120 days of complete application, landowners have 60 days to respond, and final determinations must be made within 90 days of receiving additional documentation.

• Requires appraisers preparing conservation easement appraisals for tax credits to meet specific classroom education and experience requirements established by the Board of Real Estate Appraisers.

• Allows landowners to request optional preliminary advisory opinions before formally applying for tax credits and preserves the Department of Revenue's authority over credit validity and amount while limiting its authority over Division-specific requirements.