New Jersey 2026-2027 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill S376

Introduced
1/13/26  

Caption

Prohibits condemnation of farmland actively supporting agricultural or horticultural production for purpose other than agricultural or horticultural production.

Impact

If enacted, S376 would provide a significant legal safeguard for farmers and agricultural lands in New Jersey. It highlights the state's commitment to preserving farmland, recognizing its crucial role in food security. By restricting the circumstances under which farmland can be condemned for non-agricultural purposes, the bill aims to ensure that farmers can continue their operations without the threat of losing their land to development projects that do not align with agricultural uses.

Summary

Senate Bill S376 aims to amend New Jersey's eminent domain laws, specifically targeting farmland that is actively used for agricultural or horticultural production. The core objective of the bill is to prohibit the condemnation of such farmland when the intent is to repurpose the land for uses that do not relate to agriculture or horticulture. This is part of New Jersey's initiative to safeguard its agricultural land and ensure sufficient resources for food production given the state's goal of preserving a significant amount of farmland.

Contention

The introduction of S376 may stir discussions among various stakeholders. Proponents argue that it is essential to protect farmland from commercialization and urban development, which would support long-term food security and environmental sustainability. However, opponents may raise concerns about potential limitations this law could place on municipal development plans or infrastructure projects that might benefit the state's economy in a broader sense. The balance between agricultural protection and developmental needs will likely be a point of contention in legislative discussions surrounding this bill.

Companion Bills

NJ A5884

Carry Over Prohibits condemnation of farmland actively supporting agricultural or horticultural production for purpose other than agricultural or horticultural production.

NJ S4682

Carry Over Prohibits condemnation of farmland actively supporting agricultural or horticultural production for purpose other than agricultural or horticultural production.

NJ A2940

Same As Prohibits condemnation of farmland actively supporting agricultural or horticultural production for purpose other than agricultural or horticultural production.

Similar Bills

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CA AB245

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HI HB1398

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HI HB1398

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CA SB603

An act to amend Section 69 of the Revenue and Taxation Code, relating to taxation, to take effect immediately, tax levy.

TX HB2011

Relating to the right to repurchase from a condemning entity certain real property for which ad valorem taxes are delinquent.