CT HB06316

Establishes a Community Farms Program allowing the Commissioner of Agriculture to purchase up to 100% of development rights on farmland that does not meet traditional preservation criteria due to size, soil quality, or location but contributes to local economic activity.

Requires the commissioner to establish program criteria in consultation with the Farmland Preservation Advisory Board, giving preference to farms producing food or fiber and considering factors such as sale probability, productivity, soil suitability, and community support.

Allows municipalities and the state to jointly own development rights when a municipality contributes to the purchase price from funds established under section 7-131q.

Restricts removal of agricultural restrictions to cases where either the landowner or town legislative body petitions the commissioner, obtains town voter approval via referendum, and demonstrates overriding public necessity.

Permits the commissioner to work with nonprofit organizations and federal agencies (including the USDA) to acquire development rights and allows installment payments without interest when purchase prices exceed $10,000.