Bill > S2209

This bill establishes an urban farming grant and loan program administered by the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (EDA) in collaboration with the Departments of Agriculture and Education, aiming to support farming within urban areas, defined as neighborhoods or portions of cities or specific municipalities. The program's goals are to help acquire land for urban farming, maintain these farming sites, and ensure that fresh produce and other agricultural products grown through urban farming, which includes traditional methods, greenhouses, aquaponics, and hydroponics but specifically excludes marijuana cultivation, are supplied to public school cafeterias across the state. To qualify for these grants or loans, applicants must have urban farming facilities located in designated urban areas, demonstrate existing or planned contractual relationships with school districts to provide produce, possess adequate experience in urban farming, and commit to actively participating in urban farming and supplying schools, using funds solely for urban farming, and adhering to any additional criteria set by the EDA. The EDA is authorized to establish further eligibility requirements and loan terms, and can require audited financial statements to ensure proper use of funds and continued operation.

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https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2026/S2209