ASSEMBLY AGRICULTURE AND FOOD SECURITY COMMITTEE

STATEMENT TO

ASSEMBLY, No. 2805

STATE OF NEW JERSEY

DATED:  MAY 18, 2023

      The Assembly Agriculture and Food Security Committee reports favorably Assembly Bill No. 2805.

      This bill would establish the New Jersey Native Seed Commission in the Department of Agriculture.

      The purpose of the commission would be to develop a plan to: (1) increase the production of native seeds in the State; (2) increase the use of native seeds in public land management, roadside landscaping, reforestation, habitat restoration, and other projects as determined by the commission; and (3) ensure that native seeds are commercially available in the State at a reasonable cost and in adequate supply. 

      The commission would consist of 9 members, including the Secretary of Agriculture, the Commissioner of Environmental Protection, and the Commissioner of Transportation, each of whom would serve ex officio, or their respective designees, as well as other stakeholders and experts.  The commission would be required to submit its plan to the Governor and the Legislature no later than one year after its organization. 

      The commission would expire 30 days after submission of its plan under the bill.