I believe that the New Jersey legislature should ensure that the bill banning the sale of invasive plants (S1026, A4137) finally gets passed, putting New Jersey on par with other states in regard to regulating the spread of invasives. Action by legislators is long overdue. New Jersey residents, we stand in support of local biodiversity and agriculture. Sending a message to Governor Phil Murphy proves that the residents of New Jersey desire action to be taken to protect our precious environment. 

Invasive plants are legally sold and distributed in New Jersey, despite many surrounding states having a bill which limits the distribution of non-native plants. Invasive species of plants such as burning bush, the tree of heaven, and the Bradford pear are harmful to the landscape, agriculture, and local biodiversity. 

A bill was passed unanimously by the NJ Senate and Assembly but was vetoed by Governor Phil Murphy in January 2024 – the stated reason was that the authority of the NJ Department of Environmental Protection was not taken into account. However, the NJDEP is in support of the new bill attempting to be passed (S1026, A4137) and urged us to reach out to local legislators in support of this bill.

Bill (S1026, A4137): Prohibits sale, distribution, import, export or propagation of certain invasive species without permit from Department of Agriculture; establishes NJ Invasive Species Council.