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Bill

A 4249

Provides limited civil liability immunity to farmers hosting agritourism activities.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Dawn Fantasia and 1 co-sponsor

Bill A 4249 limits farmers' civil liability for injuries during agritourism activities, encouraging farm tourism while protecting agricultural operations from lawsuit-driven financial ruin.

Introduced in the Assembly, Referred to Assembly Commerce, Economic Development and Agriculture Committee
#agriculture #civilaction
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · A 4249

Legislative bill overview

Bill A 4249 shields farmers from civil liability lawsuits when visitors are injured during agritourism activities on their property. The bill provides limited immunity protections, meaning farmers cannot be held legally responsible for certain types of injuries or accidents that occur while guests participate in farm-based recreational activities like hayrides, corn mazes, or farm tours.

Why is this important

Agritourism has become an increasingly important revenue source for New Jersey farms, but liability concerns discourage farmers from opening their land to the public. Without liability protections, a single accident could financially devastate a farming operation through lawsuits, potentially forcing farm closures and reducing agricultural land preservation efforts.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of immunity: The bill's "limited" immunity language is vague—unclear which injuries are covered and which aren't, creating potential litigation over interpretation
  • Consumer protection balance: Overly broad immunity could shield farmers from negligence claims even when they fail to maintain safe conditions, leaving injured visitors without recourse
  • Insurance implications: Clarification needed on how this interacts with liability insurance requirements and whether it affects insurance availability or premiums for agritourism operators

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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