Senate advances bill aimed at strengthening oversight of farmland tax assessment program
TRENTON, N.J. — The New Jersey Senate has advanced legislation designed to strengthen oversight and prevent abuse of the state’s farmland and woodland tax assessment program, according to the bill’s sponsors.
The measure, S-3446, sponsored by Sen. Joe Pennacchio, R-26, and Sen. Anthony Bucco, R-25, would enhance monitoring of the program while reinforcing its original purpose of preserving open space and supporting agriculture across the state.
“The farmland assessment program is an essential tool that preserves open spaces and safeguards our water and food supplies,” said Sen. Pennacchio. “While I wholeheartedly support the mission of this program, the existence of more than 37,000 assessed properties raises serious questions about the program’s integrity. Strengthening oversight will help ensure the rules are enforced properly and provide transparency for taxpayers.”
The bill, titled the “Farmland and Woodland Tax Assessment Integrity and Investment Act,” would expand the role of the State Farmland Evaluation Committee, require more frequent reviews of income eligibility thresholds, increase penalties for intentional misrepresentation, and establish an online application portal for farmland assessment filings.
“The public has a right to know if the system is being gamed,” said Sen. Bucco. “This legislation looks at whether farm activity justifies the tax benefits being claimed and examines the impact those benefits have on surrounding communities. Our goal is to ensure the program remains true to its original intent and is protected from abuse.”
In addition, the legislation would broaden the committee’s membership to include the state forester and a public member with expertise in government accountability. It also would require regular meetings and reporting to the governor and the State Board of Agriculture.
