New Jersey Assembly Bill A2275

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/7/22
• Refer: 2/7/22

Caption

Provides for spaying and neutering stray or feral cats and establishes fund therefor; designated as "Compassion for Community Cats Law."

Impact

The legislation significantly impacts existing animal welfare laws by establishing the 'Compassion for Community Cats Fund,' which will provide grants to local municipalities and counties for programs aimed at trapping, sterilizing, and vaccinating feral cats. The funding will come from penalties collected for violations of the new regulations and additional fees imposed on dog licenses. This structured funding approach aims to improve the management of feral cat populations through community involvement and support.

Summary

Bill A2275, known as the 'Compassion for Community Cats Law,' aims to address the growing population of stray and feral cats in New Jersey. The legislation mandates the spaying and neutering of these cats, requiring that no cat may be released for adoption from shelters or rescue organizations without being sterilized. The bill outlines specific exemptions, such as for very young kittens and those with health-related issues that preclude spaying or neutering. It seeks to promote humane treatment of feral cats while also reducing their numbers across the state.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support for its humane approach, it has also faced opposition. Critics express concerns regarding the financial implications for local governments required to implement these programs without guaranteed state funding. Additionally, some advocates for homeless animals fear that mandatory sterilization could decrease the number of cats allowed in community care programs, thus limiting options for rescue organizations. Proponents argue, however, that the 'trap-neuter-vaccinate-return' (TNVR) method promoted by the bill is the most effective way to control cat populations humanely and sustainably.