NY S05504

Removes oil and gas exploration/extraction activities from the definition of exempt energy activities on agricultural land, meaning land converted for oil or gas operations would now be subject to conversion penalty payments

Adds solar development to the list of protected activities alongside wind development, allowing agricultural land converted for solar panels to retain its agricultural assessment without penalty payments

Exempts land converted for solar or wind development, or taken by eminent domain, from conversion payments that would otherwise apply when agricultural land changes use

Requires the Commissioner of Agriculture and Markets, in consultation with the DEC and NYSERDA, to issue regulations within 180 days protecting prime and unique farmland while encouraging solar development on marginal soils

Takes effect 60 days after becoming law, with immediate authorization to develop necessary implementing regulations