Bill

Bill > A5063


NJ A5063

NJ A5063
Establishes New Jersey Wine and Grape Institute; appropriates $500,000.


summary

Introduced
12/09/2024
In Committee
12/09/2024
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
01/12/2026

Introduced Session

2024-2025 Regular Session

Bill Summary

This bill establishes the New Jersey Wine and Grape Institute (institute) to advance promotion and research of the State winemaking industry. The bill appropriates $500,000 for the purposes of the institute. The institute would be directed to conduct research, promote businesses, and organize a campaign in order to strengthen the New Jersey wine and grape industry's position in the marketplace, local, domestic, and national markets, and to disseminate information on the use of grapes and wine. Through a marketing campaign, the institute would conduct advertising efforts, attend conferences, participate in seminars, and develop other educational and promotional opportunities to centralize the industry. The bill also establishes the New Jersey Wine and Grape Fund to receive State appropriations from the General Fund and disburse financial support for the institute. Under the provisions of this bill, the institute would be funded by both State appropriations and partnerships with private donors. The seven public members of the institute, appointed by the Governor, would deliberate, decide upon, and initiate all research, marketing, education, and community organizing efforts by the institute. The bill appropriates $500,000 to the New Jersey Wine and Grape Fund, for distribution to the institute, and requires the Secretary of Agriculture to include with the annual budget request for the department, a request for funds for the institute, sufficient to carry out the purposes and intent of the bill. The institute would be required to prepare and submit an annual report on its activities to the Governor and the Legislature.

AI Summary

This bill establishes the New Jersey Wine and Grape Institute, a state-level organization designed to support and promote the wine and grape industry in New Jersey. The institute will be composed of seven members, including six public members appointed by the Governor representing various sectors of the wine and grape industry, and the Secretary of Agriculture as an ex-officio member. The institute's primary objectives include conducting research on market development, production methods, and grape cultivation; reducing agricultural unemployment; expanding market reach for New Jersey wines and grape products; publishing industry information; and facilitating educational and promotional activities. The bill creates a dedicated New Jersey Wine and Grape Fund, appropriates $500,000 for initial funding, and stipulates that between 25-50% of annual funds must be used for research purposes. Members will serve two-year terms without compensation but can be reimbursed for expenses, and the institute is required to submit an annual report to the Governor and Legislature detailing its operations, accomplishments, and financial activities. The institute will collaborate with the existing New Jersey Wine Industry Advisory Council and aim to enhance the visibility and economic potential of the state's wine and grape industry through targeted marketing, research, and educational initiatives.

Committee Categories

Business and Industry

Sponsors (1)

Last Action

Introduced, Referred to Assembly Commerce, Economic Development and Agriculture Committee (on 12/09/2024)

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