Bill > S216

This bill directs the New Jersey Department of Agriculture to advertise and promote aquaculture products (fish or shellfish produced in the state through farming) as part of the Jersey Fresh Program, which is an existing agricultural marketing initiative. The bill reduces the annual appropriation from $100,000 to $25,000 and requires the department to develop a specific quality grading system for aquaculture products that is consistent with how the department grades other agricultural commodities. The new grading system will help verify the quality of aquaculture products and allow them to be marketed under the Jersey Fresh brand. The bill defines aquaculture products as those produced in New Jersey or its waters, and clarifies that the Jersey Fresh Program is the state's agricultural commodity marketing and quality grading program established by existing regulations. The legislation aims to support and promote New Jersey's aquaculture industry by providing funding and a standardized quality assessment method for marketing these products.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/S216