Makes $500,000 supplemental appropriation for deer fencing grant program.
Impact
The bill is significant as it seeks to bolster the agricultural industry by providing concrete financial assistance for farmers facing challenges from deer populations. This approach not only aims to safeguard crop yields but also supports the livelihoods of those in the farming community. As the state recognizes the necessity of protecting farms from wildlife interference, this bill represents a proactive step towards enhancing agricultural resilience and compliance with environmental standards.
Summary
Assembly Bill A3923 aims to provide a $500,000 supplemental appropriation to support a deer fencing grant program intended to help farmers protect their crops on certain farmlands. This appropriation will be funded from the General Fund and is part of a broader effort to improve agricultural sustainability and safety in New Jersey. The bill taps into previous legislation, P.L.2021, c.451, which established this matching grant program specifically for farmers dealing with crop damage caused by deer, particularly in the Pinelands and Highlands regions, where farmland is often unpreserved and more vulnerable to such threats.
Contention
While the bill has garnered support from agricultural stakeholders, the discourse surrounding A3923 may reflect broader debates about resource allocation in state budgets. Concerns may arise regarding prioritization, especially if funding for such programs diverts resources from other essential state services or initiatives. Opponents may argue that while aiding farmers is crucial, similar protections should be afforded to other sectors suffering from environmental impacts, underscoring the need for a balanced approach in state funding.
Expands eligibility for wildlife fencing programs to farmers leasing farmland; clarifies eligibility and provides for uniform funding levels for grant recipients.
Expands eligibility for wildlife fencing programs to farmers leasing farmland; clarifies eligibility and provides for uniform funding levels for grant recipients.
To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022.