Assembly approves bill to preserve farmers' voice

TRENTON — Legislation safeguarding the representation of farmers on the State Agriculture Development Committee was approved by the Assembly today. Assemblyman Parker Space is prime sponsor of a bill ensuring the interest and expertise of farmers are well-represented when the committee meets.
Space’s bill allows the president and vice president of the State Board of Agriculture to appoint alternate active farming members to the State Agriculture Development Committee if a member can’t participate.
“The committee makes decisions impacting the ability of New Jersey farmers to pay their bills and remain competitive,” said Space (R-Sussex, Warren, Morris), who serves on the Assembly agriculture committee.
“Working farmers provide real-life input that helps the committee maintain its focus. When farmers are working in the fields and can’t make the meeting, we need other farmers step in with their experience and expertise to protect our state’s family farms.”
The committee, established by the state’s Right to Farm Act, administers New Jersey's Farmland Preservation Program and promotes innovative approaches to maintaining the viability of agriculture.
The 11-member panel includes six public members, including four active farmers, appointed by the governor in consultation with the State Board of Agriculture and with the consent of the Senate.
Assemblyman Hal Wirths is also a cosponsor of the bill.