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HB 805

Land preservation; maximum amount of increase of tax credits.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Betsy Carr

HB 805 increases Virginia's land preservation tax credit limits but faces subcommittee opposition due to fiscal impact concerns.

Subcommittee recommends laying on the table (7-Y 3-N)
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Bill Summary · HB 805

Legislative bill overview

HB 805 proposes to increase the maximum amount of tax credits available for land preservation activities in Virginia. The bill was referred to the House Finance Committee and recently considered by a subcommittee, which voted to table it (7-3 recommendation against advancing).

Why is this important

Land preservation tax credits are financial incentives designed to encourage property owners to conserve natural areas, agricultural land, or historically significant properties through easements and other conservation mechanisms. Adjusting the credit limits directly affects how much state tax revenue is foregone and how attractive these conservation incentives are to landowners.

Potential points of contention

  • State revenue impact: Increasing tax credits reduces state tax collections; the fiscal impact statement suggests budgetary concerns prompted the subcommittee's recommendation to table the bill
  • Distribution of benefits: Tax credit programs can disproportionately benefit wealthy landowners with significant property holdings and tax liability
  • Effectiveness debate: Questions about whether higher credits meaningfully increase land preservation or primarily benefit landowners who would conserve regardless

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

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