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HB 2399

Relating to the taxation of managed timber

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Roy Cooper and 6 co-sponsors

House Bill 2399 simplifies timberland tax certification for West Virginia landowners by extending the process from annually to every five years, promoting sustainable forestry.

Chapter 228, Acts, Regular Session, 2025
#naturalresources #taxation
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Bill Summary · HB 2399

Summary of House Bill 2399: Relating to the Taxation of Managed Timber

Bill Number: HB 2399
Status: Chapter 228, Acts, Regular Session, 2025
Introduced: February 14, 2025
Subject: Natural Resources, Taxation

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 2399 aims to amend the existing taxation framework for managed timberland in West Virginia. The primary intent of the bill is to streamline the certification process for landowners who wish to have their timberland classified as "managed timberland" for tax assessment purposes. By changing the certification frequency from annually to every five years, the bill seeks to reduce the administrative burden on landowners while ensuring that the state's forestry management practices are upheld.

Key Provisions

  1. Certification Frequency Change:

    • Landowners must now certify their managed timberland status every five years instead of annually. This certification must be submitted in writing to the Division of Forestry and must confirm that the property meets the definition of managed timberland.

  2. Forest Management Practices:

    • The certification must include a commitment to manage the property according to a plan that adheres to the "Best Management Practices for Forestry," ensuring sustainable forestry practices are maintained.

  3. Valuation of Managed Timberland:

    • Properties certified as managed timberland will be valued based on their use and productive potential, which will be determined by the State Tax Commissioner.

  4. Rulemaking Authority:

    • The bill grants the State Tax Commissioner and the Division of Forestry the authority to promulgate rules necessary for the administration of the valuation and classification of managed timberland.

  5. Confidentiality of Proprietary Information:

    • Any proprietary information provided by natural resources property owners will be kept confidential unless required to defend an appraisal.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Landowners: Those who own managed timberland will benefit from reduced certification frequency, thereby decreasing their administrative responsibilities.
  • State Tax Commissioner: The bill empowers the Tax Commissioner to establish rules and procedures for the valuation of managed timberland.
  • Division of Forestry: This agency will oversee the certification process and ensure compliance with forestry management practices.

Procedural Aspects and Timeline

  • Legislative Journey:

    • The bill was introduced on February 14, 2025, and passed through various readings and committees before being approved by the Governor on April 25, 2025.
    • The law will take effect 90 days after passage, specifically on July 6, 2025.

  • Key Dates:

    • February 14, 2025: Introduced in the House.
    • April 7, 2025: Passed by the Senate.
    • April 25, 2025: Approved by the Governor.
    • July 6, 2025: Effective date of the law.

Conclusion

House Bill 2399 represents a significant change in the taxation process for managed timberland in West Virginia, aiming to simplify compliance for landowners while promoting sustainable forestry practices. The adjustments in certification frequency and the establishment of rulemaking authority are expected to enhance the management of timber resources in the state.

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

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