A bill allowing farmworkers to live onsite at commercial farms has advanced, passing the Assembly Labor Committee on Thursday. The legislation, introduced by Assemblyman Alex Sauickie, aims to update New Jersey’s Right to Farm Act, ensuring that farmworkers can reside on the farms where they work without facing legal challenges.
The bill (A4501) protects farm owners from nuisance lawsuits filed by public or private entities regarding worker housing on their property. Sauickie emphasized that this measure acknowledges the unique demands of farm work, where employees must often respond immediately to issues affecting crops or livestock.
Under the proposed law, the number of onsite housing units will be directly linked to the labour required for farm operations. The housing provision would only apply to full-time workers who are not related to the farm’s owners or operators. Additionally, employers would be prohibited from charging these workers rent.
Sauickie pointed out that equine farm employees in New Jersey already have the right to live on-site where horses are kept or boarded. He stated that extending this right to other farmworkers would bring consistency to state laws while providing clarity for municipalities and landowners.
The bill, which previously passed the Senate in January, now awaits further consideration by the Assembly Speaker. Sauickie stressed that allowing farmworkers to live on-site is crucial for the long-term sustainability of New Jersey’s agricultural industry. According to him, round-the-clock access to the farm enables workers to provide the necessary support to maintain operations effectively.
The measure has received support from agricultural advocates who argue that it will help address labour shortages and improve working conditions for farmworkers. However, some concerns remain about potential zoning and regulatory challenges at the local level. As the bill moves forward, lawmakers will continue to evaluate its impact on New Jersey’s farming communities.
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