This bill establishes a regulatory framework for the sale, distribution, import, export, and propagation of certain invasive plant species in New Jersey, requiring individuals to obtain a permit from the Department of Agriculture (DOA) for these activities. It defines "invasive plant species" and "regulated invasive species," which includes a specific list of plants identified as harmful to the state's ecosystems. The bill stipulates that no person may propagate or introduce a regulated invasive species without a permit starting 13 months after the bill's effective date, and prohibits the sale or distribution of such species without a permit 49 months after the effective date. The DOA is responsible for creating a list of regulated invasive species and developing a permitting program, which will include criteria for issuing permits and exemptions for certain cultivars.

Additionally, the bill reestablishes the New Jersey Invasive Species Council, which will consist of 17 members, including state officials and representatives from conservation, agriculture, and academia. The council is tasked with advising on the identification of invasive species, revising the 2009 New Jersey Strategic Management Plan for Invasive Species, and developing educational materials for the public. The council's responsibilities have been modified to exclude the requirement to implement invasive species eradication and native plant restoration pilot projects, as previously mandated by Executive Order No. 97. Violations of the act can result in civil penalties, and the DOA is authorized to conduct inspections to ensure compliance, thereby aiming to protect New Jersey's ecosystems from the detrimental effects of invasive species while promoting safe management practices.