Senate bill would let Minnesota landowners claim highest past appraisal in federal land sales

What does this do?

S 638 amends the Thye-Blatnik Act of 1948, which governs federal purchases of private land near Superior National Forest in northern Minnesota. The bill would require the government to consider the highest appraised value a property has ever received, including past appraisals, rather than only its current fair market value. This means a landowner could receive a higher payment if their land was worth more at some point in the past than it is today.

Who does it affect?

The bill primarily affects private landowners with property near the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness in northeastern Minnesota who sell land to the federal government. The U.S. Forest Service, which manages that region and oversees these purchases, would also be affected.

Why does it matter?

Shifting from current market value to the highest historical appraisal could result in the federal government paying more for some parcels of land than they are currently worth. The bill was introduced by Senators Tina Smith and Amy Klobuchar and has been referred to the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, where it must be approved before advancing.

Where does it stand?