NJ A5975

Creates the crime of agroterrorism for knowingly or recklessly importing biological agents, toxins, or organisms designated as high-risk agricultural pathogens capable of harming crops, livestock, or agricultural ecosystems

Agroterrorism is a second-degree crime (5-10 years imprisonment, up to $150,000 fine) in standard cases

Elevates to a first-degree crime (10-20 years imprisonment, up to $200,000 fine) if the offense involves concealment of the pathogen's origin, is committed on behalf of or funded by a foreign government, or causes economic damage exceeding $1 million

Requires the Secretary of Agriculture, in consultation with the Commissioners of Environmental Protection and Health and the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, to establish a list of designated high-risk agricultural pathogens

Responds to a June 2025 case where two Chinese researchers were charged with smuggling Fusarium graminearum, a fungus that causes crop disease and can harm humans and livestock