Indiana is taking steps to blend the protection of its agricultural heritage with economic development through a new piece of legislation. In a move by the House, lawmakers passed a bill co-authored by State Rep. Jim Pressel designed to safeguard Hoosier farmland from encroaching development, as reported by Indiana House Republicans.
Rep. Pressel of Rolling Prairie said House Bill 1333 would protect Indiana farmland while encouraging redevelopment of brownfield sites. Under the bill, businesses and nonprofits working with the Indiana Brownfields Program could develop eligible sites with government support, according to Indiana House Republicans. Supporters say the measure aims to balance economic growth with preserving agricultural land, which contributes more than $35 billion to Indiana’s economy.
The bill also includes provisions aimed at increasing public input during local meetings. ‘This legislation, at its core, protects prime farmland from development,’ Pressel said. He added that changes were made to ensure local voices remain central in the process.
House Bill 1333 would also require that if a data center project is approved, the local community receives at least 1% of the sales tax revenue generated. Supporters say the provision would help ensure communities benefit financially from large developments.
House Bill 1333 has passed the Indiana House and now moves to the Senate for consideration. Residents can track the bill at iga.in.gov.
