Source: New Jersey Assembly Democrats
Posted on September 24, 2026
The legislation seeks to address challenges impacting aquaculture in New Jersey
(TRENTON) — Assembly Democrats’ efforts to bolster the state’s shellfish aquaculture industry took a step forward with the Assembly’s passage of legislation sponsored by Assemblywoman Maureen Rowan.
Shellfish aquaculture intersects with multiple State and federal agencies, requiring growers to navigate a complex regulatory landscape while managing issues related to access to public resources, environmental stewardship, tourism, and agricultural viability. The legislation advanced today aims to address those complexities.
“The shellfish aquaculture industry is a significant part of our state’s coastal economy, including down near me in Atlantic City,” said Assemblywoman Rowan (D-Atlantic). “Farming shellfish has economic, environmental, and ecological benefits. It’s up to us as legislators to continue to listen to our people, identify issues, and take meaningful steps towards creating a better New Jersey, and the legislation the Assembly passed today will do that.”
Earlier this month, the Assembly Agriculture and Natural Resources, chaired by Assemblywoman Andrea Katz, held a hearing to examine challenges facing New Jersey’s shellfish aquaculture industry and explore ways the Legislature can support its continued growth and viability.
The General Assembly passed the following legislation today:
- A4994 would update the State’s definition of aquaculture to include the construction of facilities and related structures, such as those needed to support shellfish farming operations. The bill aims to attract investment and to position New Jersey as a competitor in the industry by underscoring that these structures that continue to be built in our state are vital to the aquaculture industry. Assemblywoman Katz also sponsored the legislation.
- A5503 would require the Department of Agriculture to develop guidance to help aquatic farmers and shellfish dealers navigate and expand aquaculture agritourism opportunities. Agritourism allows farmers to utilize the beauty of their natural resources and the public’s interest in food production to create additional income through tours and other activities. Assemblywoman Margie Donlon and Assemblyman Clinton Calabrese also sponsored the legislation.
- A5504 would expand and change the membership of the State’s Aquaculture Advisory Council to increase representation and expertise within the industry. The reorganization is intended to align aquaculture more closely with agriculture and create more efficient lines of communication. Assemblyman Calabrese and Assemblywoman Luanne Peterpaul also sponsored the legislation.
AR153 would recognize the scientific advancements made by Rutgers University’s Haskin Shellfish Research Laboratory and its contributions to shellfish populations and the aquaculture industry. The laboratory has been instrumental in the study and development of new oyster types for the benefit of aquatic environments and the aquaculture industry. Assemblymembers Peterpaul and Calabrese also sponsored the legislation.