Subjects certain state lands to real property taxation within Orange county.

New York Senate Bill S06251, introduced by Senator James Skoufis on March 7, 2025, aims to make certain state-owned lands in Orange County subject to local real property taxes. Currently, state-owned lands used for reforestation are exempt from such taxes. This bill proposes to remove that exemption for Orange County, allowing local governments to collect property taxes on these lands. The bill was referred to the Senate Local Government Committee on January 7, 2026, but has not progressed further.

Supporters of the bill argue that taxing state-owned reforestation lands in Orange County would provide much-needed revenue for local governments, helping to fund public services and infrastructure projects. They believe this measure would create a fairer tax system by ensuring that all landowners, including the state, contribute to local tax bases.

Opponents contend that imposing property taxes on state-owned reforestation lands could discourage conservation efforts and lead to reduced funding for environmental initiatives. They worry that this policy might set a precedent for taxing other state-owned lands, potentially undermining public conservation goals.