The proposed bill aims to prohibit fur farming in New Jersey by amending existing agricultural laws. It introduces new language 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 of this prohibition would be classified as guilty of 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 amends various sections of current law to remove references to fur-bearing animals in the context of agricultural products and farming operations. This includes the deletion of terms related to fur-bearing animals from definitions of agricultural products and farming operations, thereby reinforcing the prohibition on fur farming. The bill aims to align New Jersey's agricultural practices with animal welfare considerations by eliminating the legal framework that previously supported fur farming activities. It is set to take effect one year after its enactment, allowing state agencies 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