The proposed bill aims to prohibit fur farming in New Jersey by amending existing agricultural laws. It introduces a new provision that states, "No person shall engage in fur farming, including the breeding, raising, producing, or marketing of fox, rabbit, mink, chinchilla, marten, fisher, muskrat, karakul, or any other fur-bearing animals raised in captivity." Violators would be classified as committing a disorderly persons offense. The bill also clarifies that it does not exempt individuals from existing regulations under the Fish and Game Act regarding the release or escape of certain animals, nor does it prevent the breeding or selling of animals as pets or service animals.

Additionally, the bill makes amendments to existing laws by removing references to fur-bearing animals in definitions related to agricultural products and farming operations. This includes revising the term "farm products" to include "livestock" while deleting references to fur products. These changes reflect a significant shift in the legal framework governing animal agriculture in New Jersey, emphasizing animal welfare and the prohibition of fur farming as a legitimate agricultural pursuit. The bill is set to take effect one year after its enactment, allowing state agencies time to prepare for its implementation.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 4:2-15, 13:1F-18, 13:18A-3, 23:3-1, 34:1B-241.1, 34:2-21.1, 39:3C-30.1, 54:32B-8.16