New Jersey Assembly Bill A2633

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/14/22
• Refer: 2/14/22

Caption

Authorizes farmland assessment for lands involved in maple syrup and other specialty crop production under certain circumstances.

Impact

If enacted, A2633 would impact state law by expanding the scope of agricultural uses that qualify for farmland assessment, thereby potentially increasing the incentive for landowners to engage in specialty crop production. This could promote diversity in agricultural output and encourage the cultivation of unique products such as maple syrup, which is significant for certain regions in New Jersey. The bill is positioned to support local economies engaged in specialty agricultural practices by providing favorable tax treatments.

Summary

Assembly Bill A2633, introduced in New Jersey, seeks to amend the 'Farmland Assessment Act of 1964' to include lands used for maple syrup production and other specialty crops under farmland assessment eligibility. This amendment clarifies the definition of 'tree and forest products' to explicitly include maple syrup produced from sap collected in accordance with a woodland management plan. The bill recognizes maple syrup as a designated specialty crop according to the USDA's classification, linking the state's farmland assessment standards to federal designations.

Contention

While the bill appears to enjoy broad support among proponents of agricultural development, concerns may arise regarding the stringent compliance requirements stipulated within woodland management plans. Critics might argue that these requirements could impose additional burdens on landowners. Furthermore, there could be debates about the prioritization of certain crops over traditional staples, raising questions around resource allocation and the definition of agricultural use under the law.