Use of high tunnel greenhouses exempted from being considered real estate
The Senate today unanimously passed legislation introduced by Senator Elder Vogel that will provide a tax break for Pennsylvania farmers. Senate Bill 638 would ensure that high tunnel greenhouses are not considered permanent structures and categorized as real estate for tax purposes.
High tunnels, also known as hoop houses, are steel pipe frames covered by plastic that have a variety of agricultural purposes including plant protection, livestock housing, and storage.
“These structures extend their growing season so farming families can improve the profitability of their farms. Growers can start their season 4 to 8 weeks earlier in the spring and extend the season 2 to 5 weeks later in the fall,” said Senator Vogel, Chairman of the Senate Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee. “Subjecting these temporary structures to taxation places an onerous financial burden on farming families that can more than erase any profits they may realize from using high tunnels in the first place.”
The bill now goes to the House of Representatives for consideration.
CONTACT: Mike Rader
(717) 787-3076