Bill > SB84

This bill strengthens Delaware's Right to Farm laws by expanding protections for agricultural operations against nuisance lawsuits. The bill removes the previous requirement that an agricultural operation must exist for at least one year to be protected from nuisance claims. Under the new law, an agricultural operation cannot be considered a nuisance as long as it complies with all local, state, and federal requirements and is not conducted negligently or improperly. The bill broadens the definition of agricultural operations to include activities like crop cultivation, livestock raising, bee production, horse breeding, roadside farmers' markets, and agricultural product transportation. If a nuisance lawsuit is brought against an agricultural operation and is determined to be frivolous, the plaintiff may be required to pay the defendant's court costs and attorney fees. The bill maintains an exception that prevents these protections from being used against government agencies enforcing environmental standards. By making these changes, the law aims to provide more comprehensive legal protection for farmers and agricultural businesses, helping to shield them from potential legal challenges that could disrupt their operations.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://legis.delaware.gov/BillDetail?LegislationId=142038