This bill amends P.L.1971, c.361 to prohibit the condemnation of farmland that is actively supporting agricultural or horticultural production when the condemnor intends to develop that property for purposes other than agricultural or horticultural production. The new legal language specifies that a condemnor cannot initiate condemnation proceedings under the eminent domain law if the property in question is farmland being used for agricultural activities. This change aims to protect active farmland from being taken for non-agricultural development, aligning with New Jersey's goal of preserving 500,000 acres of farmland.

The bill emphasizes that eminent domain should be used for public projects that benefit the community, rather than for private gain. It seeks to ensure that farmland, which is essential for food security, remains intact and is not repurposed for other uses that do not support agricultural production. By narrowing the scope of eminent domain laws, the bill aims to safeguard the state's agricultural resources and promote sustainable land use practices.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 20:3-6