New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill S3194

Introduced
10/13/22  

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

In addition to changing the hunting perimeter, S3194 imposes new responsibilities on property owners who wish to engage in hunting on their land. These owners must now provide written notice to neighboring property owners and occupants at least 24 hours before any hunting activity takes place. This transparency aims to inform and protect those living nearby from potential hazards associated with hunting, thereby fostering a greater sense of community safety.

Summary

Bill S3194, known as the 'Restoring Safety Buffer Law', alters hunting regulations in New Jersey to enhance safety near occupied buildings and school playgrounds. It specifically expands the previously existing prohibition of hunting activities with a bow and arrow from a 150-foot radius to a 450-foot radius of such buildings. This adjustment aims to mitigate risks associated with hunting in proximity to residential areas and educational institutions, ensuring that individuals and their pets, like the unfortunate case of Tonka, a pet mistakenly shot, are afforded greater protection.

Contention

While supporters of S3194 highlight its potential to prevent tragic incidents similar to the shooting of Tonka, critics may argue that increased restrictions on hunting could infringe on the rights of lawful hunters and limit traditional hunting practices. The requirement of neighborly notification could also complicate the process for hunters, creating friction between recreational users of land and private property owners. Hence, the bill underscores a balancing act between safety concerns and the rights of individuals engaging in hunting.

Companion Bills

NJ A3732

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."

MA 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.

PA HB1431

In game or wildlife protection, further providing for regulations and for unlawful activities; and, in hunting and furtaking, repealing provisions relating to hunting on Sunday prohibited, further providing for unlawful devices and methods and for trespass on private property while hunting and repealing provisions relating to hunting on Sunday without written permission.

ME 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 S360

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

IA 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.)

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.