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 after the effective date of this bill, a condemnor cannot take such farmland under the power of eminent domain if the intended use does not align with agricultural or horticultural activities. This change aims to protect active farmland from being repurposed for non-agricultural developments, thereby supporting New Jersey's goal of preserving 500,000 acres of farmland.

The bill emphasizes the importance of maintaining farmland for food security and asserts that eminent domain should be reserved for public projects that benefit the community, rather than for private interests. By narrowing the scope of eminent domain laws, the bill seeks to ensure that farmland remains available for agricultural production, which is essential for the state's food supply and agricultural economy. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 20:3-6