HB 1637-S - DIGEST

(DIGEST OF PROPOSED 1ST SUBSTITUTE)

Provides that county legislative authorities, in adopting open space plans, public benefit rating systems, and assessed valuation schedules, shall give priority consideration to lands used for buffers that: (1) Are not required by law; and

(2) Are planted with or primarily contain native vegetation.

Declares that "priority consideration" as used in this act may include, but is not limited to, establishing classification eligibility and maintenance criteria for buffers meeting the requirements of this act.

Requires county legislative authorities to meet the requirements of this act no later than July 1, 2006, unless buffers already receive priority consideration in the existing open space plans, public benefit rating systems, and assessed valuation schedules.