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SB 688

Land use: farmland and open space; individual essential to farm; update citation. Amends sec. 36103 of 1994 PA 451 (MCL 324.36103). TIE BAR WITH: SB 0690'25, SB 0686'25, SB 0689'25, SB 0687'25, SB 0685'25

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by John Cherry and 4 co-sponsors

Michigan SB 688 updates legal citation in farmland preservation law to clarify definitions of individuals essential to farm operations and tax exemptions.

referred to second reading
#landuse:farmlandandopenspace
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Bill Summary · SB 688

Legislative bill overview

SB 688 updates a citation reference in Michigan's farmland and open space preservation law (the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act). The bill clarifies regulatory language regarding what constitutes an "individual essential to farm" operations, likely to ensure the definition aligns with current statutory organization.

Why is this important

Agricultural property tax exemptions and farmland preservation policies depend on clear, accurate legal definitions. Citation errors or outdated references can create confusion during property assessments and may affect which landowners qualify for farmland tax benefits. This technical update ensures consistent administration of Michigan's farmland protection programs.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of "essential to farm": The bill doesn't specify exactly how the definition changes, so stakeholders differ on whether it expands or restricts who qualifies for farmland exemptions
  • Agricultural vs. non-agricultural use: Updates to this definition could affect borderline cases involving agritourism, value-added processing, or mixed-use rural properties
  • Tied legislation: This bill is tied to five companion bills (SB 685-690), meaning it only passes if all are approved—creating uncertainty about overall intent and potential hidden impacts across the package

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

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