This bill amends the existing law regarding eminent domain in New Jersey, specifically targeting the condemnation of farmland. It introduces a new provision that prohibits a condemnor from taking property that is actively used for agricultural or horticultural production if the intended use of that property is for purposes other than agricultural or horticultural production. This change aims to protect farmland from being repurposed for non-agricultural developments, thereby supporting the state's goal of preserving active farmland and ensuring food security for its citizens.

The bill also outlines the process for condemnation, emphasizing that a condemnor must first attempt to acquire the property through bona fide negotiations, including a written offer that meets certain criteria. If the property owner rejects the offer or fails to respond within a specified timeframe, this will serve as proof of the condemnor's inability to acquire the property through negotiation. Overall, the legislation seeks to limit the use of eminent domain to ensure that farmland remains dedicated to agricultural purposes, rather than being repurposed for private profit or non-agricultural developments.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 20:3-6