Law to encourage more female and minority farmers in New Jersey signed by governor

Law to encourage more female and minority farmers in New Jersey signed by governor
An Autumn view of the historic Longstreet Farm in Holmdel, New Jersey. Photo 1573863 © Andrew Kazmierski | Dreamstime.com

Trenton, NJ-A new law sponsored by Senator Joe Pennacchio would establish the New Jersey minority, women, and underserved farmer registry. The registry would make it easier for farmers to qualify for loan assistance programs and other forms of support from the state of New Jersey to encourage underserved farmers to set up operations in the Garden State.

The bill was signed into law this week by Governor Phil Murphy.

“I am extremely pleased that the Governor signed this bill into law today. Historically, minority and disadvantaged farmers have been neglected by programs designed to help with loans and other assistance,” said Pennacchio (R-26). “Too many have been unable to capitalize on affordable sources of financing for beginning farmers, emergency loans, and other costly expenses.”