New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A3732

Introduced
5/2/22  

Caption

Changes perimeter for bow and arrow hunting around certain buildings; requires property owner to provide notice and obtain receipt from owners of adjacent properties of any hunting activity; designated as "Restoring Safety Buffer Law."

Impact

If passed, this bill will impact the Revised Statutes concerning wildlife hunting, particularly R.S.23:4-16. It mandates that property owners must inform and obtain confirmation from adjacent property owners about any hunting activities on their property at least 24 hours in advance. This ensures that neighboring residents are aware and can take necessary precautions, thereby aiming to create a safer environment for both people and pets in residential areas adjacent to hunting lands.

Summary

Assembly Bill A3732, titled the 'Restoring Safety Buffer Law', aims to amend existing hunting laws in New Jersey. The bill is a direct response to the tragic incident involving the death of Tonka, a family pet who was accidentally shot during hunting activities. A crucial element of this legislation is the increase in the hunting safety buffer, which now prohibits bow and arrow hunting within 450 feet of any occupied building or school playground. This change from the previous restriction of 150 feet is designed to enhance safety and prevent similar accidents in the future.

Contention

Notably, opposition may arise regarding the feasibility of implementing such notification requirements, especially in rural areas where properties may be far apart. Critics may argue that it could infringe on the rights of property owners to hunt freely on their land without excessive regulations. Supporters, however, contend that the legislation is a necessary step towards improving public safety and preventing further tragedies like that of Tonka, emphasizing the importance of communication between property owners in residential hunting zones.

Companion Bills

NJ S3194

Same As Changes perimeter for bow and arrow hunting around certain buildings; requires property owner to provide notice and obtain receipt from owners of adjacent properties of any hunting activity; designated as "Restoring Safety Buffer Law."

Previously Filed As

NJ S2752

Changes perimeter for bow and arrow hunting around certain buildings; requires property owner to provide notice and obtain receipt from owners of adjacent properties of any hunting activity; designated as "Restoring Safety Buffer Law."

NJ H941

Authorizing the use of bow and arrows for Sunday hunting

NJ A4557

Requires municipal accounting of abandoned properties before receiving certain State aid; establishes State database of abandoned properties; requires owners of abandoned properties to document rehabilitation efforts.

NJ S1699

Authorizes Sunday firearm and bow hunting for deer on certain lands.

NJ A164

Authorizes Sunday firearm and bow hunting for deer on certain lands.

NJ LD62

An Act to Support Municipal and County Actions on Dam Ownership and to Make Other Changes to the Laws Regulating Release from Dam Ownership

NJ A3142

Exempts State residents 65 years of age and older from certain hunting, trapping, and fishing fees and license requirements.

NJ HF713

A bill for an act relating to probate law, including providing notice to named beneficiaries and a process for named beneficiaries to obtain ownership of property held by others.(See HF 940.)

NJ S360

Prohibits ownership of certain protected land adjacent to military facilities in State by certain foreign governments and persons.

NJ HB1991

Changes the laws regarding the foreign ownership of real property, with a penalty provision

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.