Bill
Bill > S3914
NJ S3914
Prohibits aquaculture of any species of octopus for purpose of human consumption.
summary
Introduced
12/05/2024
12/05/2024
In Committee
12/05/2024
12/05/2024
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2024-2025 Regular Session
Bill Summary
This bill prohibits the aquaculture of any species of octopus for the purpose of human consumption. In addition, this bill prohibits a business entity from selling, possessing, or transporting any species of octopus that is the result or product of aquaculture. Any violation of the bill's provisions would be subject to a civil penalty not to exceed $1,000, and each day during which the violation continues would constitute an additional, separate, and distinct offense. The practice of octopus aquaculture has raised ethical and environmental concerns due to the highly advanced cognitive abilities and complex behaviors exhibited by these animals. Octopus farming practices and conditions, including inadequate living environments and confinement, may subject octopus to significant stress and suffering, compromise their well-being, and lead to adverse behavioral changes. As carnivores, octopuses require a high-protein diet sourced from wild fish and shellfish which could substantially increase demand on marine resources, further depleting fish stocks and disrupting marine ecosystems. Additionally, octopus aquaculture poses further risks to the marine ecosystems due to the heightened potential for the spread of infectious pathogens, which may impact other marine species and ecosystems.
AI Summary
This bill prohibits aquaculture (the farming of aquatic organisms) of any species of octopus for human consumption in New Jersey. Specifically, the bill defines "octopus" as a soft-bodied, eight-limbed marine animal, excluding wild-caught octopuses and those used for non-commercial research. The legislation makes it illegal for any person to engage in octopus aquaculture within the state, and prohibits businesses from selling, possessing, or transporting octopuses produced through aquaculture. Violations of these provisions will result in civil penalties of up to $1,000 per day, with each day of continued violation considered a separate offense. The bill allows the Secretary of Agriculture to adopt rules and regulations to implement these restrictions, and provides for potential collection of penalties through court proceedings. The legislation aims to address ethical and environmental concerns surrounding octopus farming, including potential animal welfare issues, stress on the animals, and potential negative impacts on marine ecosystems. The act will take effect immediately upon enactment.
Committee Categories
Business and Industry
Sponsors (7)
Nilsa Cruz-Perez (D)*,
Douglas Steinhardt (R)*,
Vin Gopal (D),
Raj Mukherji (D),
Declan O'Scanlon (R),
Bob Smith (D),
Andrew Zwicker (D),
Last Action
Senate Economic Growth Hearing (10:30:00 5/22/2025 Committee Room 4, 1st Floor, State House Annex, Trenton, NJ) (on 05/22/2025)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/S3914 |
| BillText | https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2024/S4000/3914_I1.HTM |
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