The bill, A-2014, revises the state's Right to Farm Act to enhance protections to farmers performing recognized farming operations. Under previous law, the presumption that agricultural operations could not constitute a public or private nuisance was rebuttable. The new law allows farmers greater flexibility in managing their businesses by expanding the list of agricultural activity that are excluded from municipal regulation. The bill also requires that state agencies issue an agricultural impact statement when proposing a new rule. At a time when it is commonplace to see a new housing development next to a working farm, conflicts between neighbors are on the rise.
Nuisance complaints can develop into costly court cases.
This legislation will protect our farmers from costly lawsuits - and will have the added benefit of promoting intelligent planning. The Governor noted that requiring state agencies to issue an agricultural impact statement when proposing a new rule will keep agricultural interests a top priority. In revising the Right to Farm Act, we are backing up our promise to support New Jersey's farmers, today, tomorrow, and into the future.