Property tax: documentary transfer tax: exemptions: Native American tribes.

Assembly Member Macedo's proposal creates two tax exemptions to facilitate tribal land preservation and reclamation in California through 2031. The measure exempts from property taxes any land owned by federally recognized tribes or their subsidiaries when used exclusively for preserving native species, scientific formations, or open spaces accessible to the public. Properties must operate under a conservation management plan that details preservation goals, permitted activities, and maintenance schedules.

The bill also eliminates documentary transfer taxes on tribal land return transactions, defined as transfers to federally recognized tribes that include deed restrictions limiting the land's use to cultural, educational, recreational, or conservation purposes. These transactions must transfer ownership in fee simple rather than as federal trust land, and prohibit commercial activities on the property.

To track implementation, the Board of Equalization and Legislative Analyst's Office must report annually on metrics including the number and value of qualifying transfers, total acreage reclaimed, and tax revenue impacts. The bill requires local agencies to process these new exemptions, with state reimbursement available for any mandated costs as determined by the Commission on State Mandates.