MI SB1566

Amends MCL 211.7o of the General Property Tax Act to revise the definition of "qualified conservation organization" by removing the requirement that such organizations be "charitable institutions."

Property owned by qualified conservation organizations held for conservation purposes and open to state residents for educational or recreational activities (hiking, bird watching, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing) remains exempt from property tax collection.

Qualified conservation organizations must be nonprofits organized to acquire, maintain, and protect nature sanctuaries and natural areas containing natural habitat for fish, wildlife, and plants.

Organizations must hold property in perpetuity for conservation purposes unless the property is no longer suitable for those purposes and the sale is approved by majority vote of members or trustees.

Organizations must prohibit officers, board members, employees, trustees, and their family members from benefiting personally from any sale of conservation property.