Bill > S3353

This bill directs the State Agriculture Development Committee to establish an agricultural management practice for housing resident farm employees on commercial farms, with several key provisions. The bill defines a "resident farm employee" as a full-time worker engaged in agricultural production, excluding farm owners, their descendants, and equine-related employees. The agricultural management practice must link the amount of housing to the labor needs of the farm. The housing must comply with existing construction, labor, and worker protection standards, including the State Uniform Construction Code and federal agricultural worker protection regulations. Municipalities are prohibited from denying occupancy certificates for such housing if it meets the established standards. Importantly, the housing can only be used for resident farm employees, and these employees cannot be charged rent to live in the provided housing. The bill also adds this type of housing to the list of permissible activities for commercial farms under the "Right to Farm" protections, which means such housing cannot be restricted by local ordinances if it meets the established criteria. This legislation aims to support agricultural workers by ensuring they have access to affordable, appropriate housing directly connected to their workplace.

Business and Industry, Labor and Employment

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/S3353