Governor Signs Cruz-Perez Bill to Extend Pilot Program Allowing Special Occasion Events at Wineries on Preserved Farmland

TRENTON – Legislation sponsored by Senate Economic Growth Chairwoman Nilsa Cruz-Perez that will extend the existing pilot program authorizing special occasion events at wineries on preserved farmland was signed by Governor Murphy today.

“Since the pilot program was created, the state has seen an increase in revenue from the wineries, which has also increased existing tourism to preserved farmland.  Now New Jersey will be able to take advantage of this link between agriculture, tourism and events, each bolstering and supporting the others in turn,” said Senator Cruz-Perez (D-Camden/Gloucester).

The law, S-2127, extends the pilot program allowing special occasion events, like fairs, festivals and weddings, at wineries on preserved farmland for another two years.  The current pilot program expired March 1, 2018.  The law also requires that each county agriculture development board prepare and submit an annual report to the Governor and the Legislature. Each report will include findings that summarize the activities of wineries on preserved farmland in the county and make recommendations for the pilot program.

The State Agriculture Development Committee is required to issue an interim report within 30 days and release a final report at least 45 days before the program’s expiration.  Both reports would review the program, summarize county results and issue recommendations on the program’s continuance to the Governor and the Legislature.