This bill establishes the crime of agroterrorism in New Jersey, defining it as the act of knowingly or recklessly importing a biological agent, toxin, or organism designated as a high-risk agricultural pathogen. Such pathogens are capable of causing significant harm to crops, livestock, or agricultural ecosystems within the state. Agroterrorism is classified as a second-degree crime, punishable by five to ten years of imprisonment and fines up to $150,000. However, if the act involves concealment of the pathogen's origin, is committed by someone funded by a foreign government, or results in economic damage exceeding $1 million, it escalates to a first-degree crime, with penalties of ten to twenty years in prison and fines up to $200,000.

The bill also mandates the Secretary of Agriculture, in collaboration with other relevant state and federal agencies, to create a list of high-risk agricultural pathogens. This legislation is a response to recent incidents, including the case of two Chinese researchers charged with smuggling a dangerous biological pathogen into the U.S., highlighting the potential threats posed by agroterrorism. By criminalizing such acts, the bill aims to deter future incidents that could jeopardize New Jersey's agricultural integrity and public health.