This bill amends the definition of "aquaculture" in New Jersey law to explicitly include the construction of facilities and appurtenant structures associated with aquaculture activities, which were previously excluded. The revised definition aims to align with the broader scope of aquaculture practices and modifies several sections of existing laws, including P.L.1997, c.236, P.L.1979, c.111, P.L.1979, c.199, and P.L.1981, c.262, ensuring consistent terminology across various statutes. By recognizing the importance of these structures, such as hatcheries and processing facilities, the bill seeks to enhance clarity and potentially attract investment to the aquaculture sector in New Jersey.

In addition to redefining aquaculture, the bill updates references to relevant public laws by replacing the phrase "this act" with specific citations, promoting clarity in legal language. It also includes technical amendments to existing definitions related to environmental regulations, clarifying terms like "hazardous pollutant," "serious violation," and "significant noncomplier." Furthermore, the bill updates language regarding permits for waste discharge into ocean waters to align with current environmental standards. The changes are intended to modernize the legal framework surrounding aquaculture, facilitating the industry's growth and regulation, and the bill is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 4:27-3, 13:18A-3, 23:2B-3, 58:1A-3, 58:1A-7.2, 58:10A-3, 58:10A-7.1