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Bill

Bill

A 1890

Enacts the low impact landscaping rights act

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Chris Burdick and 6 co-sponsors

The Low Impact Landscaping Rights Act empowers property owners to adopt eco-friendly landscaping, reducing water use and chemicals while promoting native plants.

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Bill Summary · A 1890

Summary of Bill A 1890: Low Impact Landscaping Rights Act

Bill Overview

  • Bill Number: A 1890
  • Title: Enacts the Low Impact Landscaping Rights Act
  • Status: Tabled
  • Introduced On: January 14, 2025
  • Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

The Low Impact Landscaping Rights Act aims to promote environmentally sustainable landscaping practices by providing legal rights and protections for property owners who choose to implement low-impact landscaping techniques. This legislation is designed to encourage the use of native plants, reduce water consumption, and minimize chemical usage, thereby contributing to ecological preservation and enhancing community aesthetics.

Key Provisions

While the specific text of the bill is not provided, the following key provisions can be inferred based on the title and legislative intent:

  1. Rights for Property Owners:

    • Establishes the right for homeowners and property owners to utilize low-impact landscaping methods without facing restrictions from local ordinances or homeowners' associations that may favor traditional landscaping practices.
  2. Definition of Low Impact Landscaping:

    • Provides a clear definition of what constitutes low-impact landscaping, likely including the use of native plants, xeriscaping, and organic gardening methods.
  3. Incentives for Adoption:

    • May include incentives for property owners who adopt low-impact landscaping practices, such as tax breaks or grants for implementing sustainable landscaping projects.
  4. Education and Resources:

    • Proposes the creation of educational programs and resources to inform property owners about the benefits and techniques of low-impact landscaping.

Affected Parties

  • Property Owners: Individuals and families who own residential or commercial properties would benefit from the rights and protections established by this bill.
  • Local Governments: Municipalities may need to adjust existing landscaping regulations to comply with the new rights granted to property owners.
  • Environmental Organizations: Groups advocating for sustainable practices may support the bill, as it aligns with their goals of promoting ecological health.

Legislative Timeline

  • January 14, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the Housing Committee.
  • May 28, 2025: Passed in the Assembly and delivered to the Senate.
  • June 11, 2025: Passed in the Senate, returned to the Assembly, and substituted for S7358.
  • October 9, 2025: Delivered to the Governor.
  • October 16, 2025: Vetoed by the Governor (Veto Memo 37).
  • October 17, 2025: Tabled.

Related Legislation

  • A 6317: A prior-session bill that may have addressed similar issues.
  • S 7358: A companion bill that was substituted for A 1890, indicating a parallel legislative effort in the Senate.

Conclusion

The Low Impact Landscaping Rights Act represents a significant step towards promoting sustainable landscaping practices. Although it has been tabled and vetoed, the discussions surrounding this bill highlight the growing interest in environmental conservation and the rights of property owners to make eco-friendly choices. Further advocacy and legislative efforts may be necessary to revisit and refine this initiative in the future.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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