Assemblymember Barrett and Senator Hinchey Announce Passage of Bill to Revitalize Historic Barns in New York State
LIVINGSTON, NY – Today, Assemblymember Didi Barrett (Columbia and Dutchess Counties) and State Senator Michelle Hinchey (SD-46) announced the passage of a bill to resurrect the Historic Barn Rehabilitation Tax Credit, a program designed to help communities across New York State maintain their character through the refurbishment of historic barns. The bill, which received unanimous support from both houses of the State Legislature, establishes a 25% tax credit for the rehabilitation of barns constructed before 1945. Hinchey and Barrett joined forces today, alongside representatives of the New York State Barn Coalition and the Preservation League of New York State, to call on the Governor to sign the bill into law.
The Historic Barn Rehabilitation Tax Credit has contributed to the successful restoration of close to 50 barns across New York State. Returning these buildings to productive use will allow New York to preserve its agricultural heritage while creating new spaces for community enjoyment that promote the economic vitality of New York’s rural areas.
In 2018, the Historic Barn Rehabilitation Tax Credit was eliminated as a result of changes in the federal tax code under the Federal Tax Cuts and Job Act of 2017. The Hinchey/Barrett bill revives this tax incentive (shifting it solely to Section 606 of the New York State Tax Law) and expands eligibility requirements so that more historic barns throughout the state may qualify.
