New Jersey Bills Aim to Curb Frivolous Lawsuits, Limit Agritourism Liability
New Jersey Farm Bureau is supporting two bills that would expand legal protections for farmers.
Bill A4603, introduced by Sen. Troy Singleton, D-Burlington, allows farmers to be awarded reasonable costs and attorney fees for defending against bad-faith complaints under the Right to Farm Act.
Farmers would submit petitions for relief to their county agriculture development board or the State Agriculture Development Committee for review.
“A4603 should help cut down on the frivolous lawsuits from neighbors,” said Allen Carter, the Farm Bureau president.
The bill has passed both the House and Senate and awaits a decision from Gov. Phil Murphy. Press secretary Tyler Jones said the governor’s office does not comment on pending legislation.
Another bill would limit civil liability for agritourism.
If a farm gives sufficient warning of the inherent risks involved in an agritourism experience, it would not be liable for injuries or deaths caused by those activities.
S76, introduced by Sen. Nilsa Cruz-Perez, D-Camden, prescribes signage that meets these requirements.
This limitation on liability would not apply if the farm commits gross negligence or criminal acts.
The bill is modeled on legislation from Arkansas and is in the Senate Economic Growth Committee. A number of states, including Pennsylvania, have passed similar laws.
Carter said the bill will protect farms already providing agritourism and allow others who were nervous about liability to explore that option.
“These bills show that the Legislature is listening to the agricultural community,” Carter said.