The General Assembly passed legislation today to strengthen New Jersey’s aquaculture industry by expanding the promotion of locally grown seafood through the Jersey Fresh program. Bill A3034, sponsored by Assemblymen Clinton Calabrese, Roy Freiman, and William Spearman, would direct the Department of Agriculture to advertise and promote New Jersey aquaculture products under the State’s widely recognized Jersey Fresh branding initiative. The legislation cleared the New Jersey Senate last week and now heads to the Governor’s desk for consideration.
“Aquaculture is an increasingly important part of New Jersey’s agricultural economy, and the farmers behind it deserve the same visibility and marketing support as other Jersey Fresh producers,” said Assemblyman Calabrese (D-Bergen, Passaic). “This bill helps connect consumers with high-quality, locally grown seafood while also supporting businesses and job creation along our coast and inland waterways.”
By incorporating aquaculture into Jersey Fresh promotions, the legislation aims to boost consumer awareness, increase demand for New Jersey seafood, and support sustainable food production across the state.
“New Jersey has a strong agricultural identity, and that includes our aquaculture producers,” said Assemblyman Freiman (D-Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Somerset). “Expanding Jersey Fresh to include aquaculture ensures our marketing efforts reflect the full range of products grown and raised right here in our state.”
The bill recognizes aquaculture as a key component of New Jersey’s food system, helping producers compete in regional markets while giving consumers more opportunities to buy local.
“Our Jersey Fresh program is trusted by consumers, and this legislation puts that trusted label to work for aquaculture businesses,” said Assemblyman Spearman (D-Camden, Gloucester). “Promoting local seafood supports economic growth, sustainability, and food security for communities across New Jersey.”