New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill S4551

Introduced
6/2/25  
Refer
6/2/25  
Report Pass
6/9/25  

Caption

Appropriates $3,750,990 from constitutionally dedicated CBT revenues to State Agriculture Development Committee for grants to certain nonprofit organizations for farmland preservation purposes.

Impact

The funding mechanism relies on revenues dedicated by the New Jersey Constitution, ensuring that the grants issued through this bill will help fulfill the commitments made to sustainable agriculture, open space, and environmental conservation. The specific appropriations include grants to the Land Conservancy of New Jersey, supporting multiple farms across various counties, highlighting the state's intent to bolster local agricultural initiatives and safeguard farmland from urban development. This is considered critical for preserving the state's agricultural heritage and environmental resources.

Summary

Senate Bill S4551 appropriates $3,750,990 from constitutionally dedicated corporation business tax (CBT) revenues to the State Agriculture Development Committee (SADC) for grants to qualifying tax-exempt nonprofit organizations aimed at farmland preservation purposes. This funding is specifically targeted to support projects that seek to acquire development easements on farmland or purchase fee simple titles to farmland for resale or lease, ensuring that agricultural deed restrictions are respected as per SADC guidelines. The financial backing is provided under the framework of the 'Preserve New Jersey Act', which enhances efforts within the state to maintain and protect agricultural land.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around S4551 is supportive, especially among environmentalists and agricultural stakeholders who view it as a vital step towards ensuring sustainable land use in New Jersey. Legislators sponsoring the bill underscore its importance by framing it as essential for local food production, environmental stewardship, and community cohesion. However, there may be contention among certain urban development advocates who argue for greater emphasis on housing and development rather than preserved farmland, suggesting a need for balanced policy frameworks.

Contention

Key points of contention include the allocation of resources away from urban development projects that some believe are necessary to accommodate demographic shifts and housing demands in New Jersey. Critics argue that while farmland preservation is important, it must be weighed against the pressing needs for housing and infrastructure in urban areas. Moreover, the reliance on CBT revenues may spark discussions on fiscal responsibility and the potential impact on the state budget, raising questions about prioritization in state expenditure.

Companion Bills

NJ A5865

Same As Appropriates $3,750,990 from constitutionally dedicated CBT revenues to State Agriculture Development Committee for grants to certain nonprofit organizations for farmland preservation purposes.

Previously Filed As

NJ A5865

Appropriates $3,750,990 from constitutionally dedicated CBT revenues to State Agriculture Development Committee for grants to certain nonprofit organizations for farmland preservation purposes.

NJ S2793

Appropriates $1.723 million from constitutionally dedicated CBT revenues and "2009 Farmland Preservation Fund" to State Agriculture Development Committee for grants to certain nonprofit organizations for farmland preservation purposes.

NJ S4176

Appropriates $1.723 million from constitutionally dedicated CBT revenues and "2009 Farmland Preservation Fund" to State Agriculture Development Committee for grants to certain nonprofit organizations for farmland preservation purposes.

NJ A3698

Appropriates $1.723 million from constitutionally dedicated CBT revenues and "2009 Farmland Preservation Fund" to State Agriculture Development Committee for grants to certain nonprofit organizations for farmland preservation purposes.

NJ S4524

Appropriates $34 million from constitutionally dedicated CBT revenues to State Agriculture Development Committee for county planning incentive grants for farmland preservation purposes.

NJ A5862

Appropriates $34 million from constitutionally dedicated CBT revenues to State Agriculture Development Committee for county planning incentive grants for farmland preservation purposes.

NJ S4531

Appropriates $52,798,268 from constitutionally dedicated CBT revenues and other farmland preservation funds to State Agriculture Development Committee for farmland preservation purposes.

NJ A5861

Appropriates $52,798,268 from constitutionally dedicated CBT revenues and other farmland preservation funds to State Agriculture Development Committee for farmland preservation purposes.

NJ S2788

Appropriates $128.241 million from constitutionally dedicated CBT revenues to State Agriculture Development Committee for farmland preservation purposes.

NJ S4177

Appropriates $128.241 million from constitutionally dedicated CBT revenues to State Agriculture Development Committee for farmland preservation purposes.

Similar Bills

NJ A5865

Appropriates $3,750,990 from constitutionally dedicated CBT revenues to State Agriculture Development Committee for grants to certain nonprofit organizations for farmland preservation purposes.

NJ A5862

Appropriates $34 million from constitutionally dedicated CBT revenues to State Agriculture Development Committee for county planning incentive grants for farmland preservation purposes.

NJ S4524

Appropriates $34 million from constitutionally dedicated CBT revenues to State Agriculture Development Committee for county planning incentive grants for farmland preservation purposes.

NJ S4569

Appropriates $13,640,000 to DEP from constitutionally dedicated CBT revenues for grants of certain nonprofit entities for open space acquisition, park development, and planning projects, and for certain administrative expenses.

NJ S3474

Appropriates $10,067,905 to DEP from constitutionally dedicated CBT revenues for grants to certain nonprofit entities to acquire or develop lands for recreation and conservation purposes, and for certain administrative expenses.

NJ A4570

Appropriates $10,067,905 to DEP from constitutionally dedicated CBT revenues for grants to certain nonprofit entities to acquire or develop lands for recreation and conservation purposes, and for certain administrative expenses.

NJ A5654

Appropriates $9,184,427 to DEP from constitutionally dedicated CBT revenues for grants to certain nonprofit entities to acquire or develop lands for recreation and conservation purposes, and for certain administrative expenses.

NJ A5864

Appropriates $13,640,000 to DEP from constitutionally dedicated CBT revenues for grants to certain nonprofit entities for open space acquisition, park development, and planning projects, and for certain administrative expenses.