New Jersey Assembly Bill A167

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22

Caption

Requires registry of animal rescue organizations; requires animal rescue, pet shop, shelter, or pound notify person adopting or purchasing animal of animal's behavioral and medical history; designated as "Rocky's Law."

Impact

The bill emphasizes consumer protection by making it unlawful for any rescue organization or pet shop to fail in disclosing critical information about an animal's history. Furthermore, the bill reinforces state consumer fraud laws by establishing penalties for non-compliance, including hefty fines linked to the adoption fees or purchase prices. This highlights the new accountability for both pet shops and rescue organizations, aiming for a higher standard of care and transparency regarding animal welfare and public safety. The requirement for a veterinary examination within 14 days prior to adoption is particularly significant for mitigating risks related to animal health.

Summary

Assembly Bill A167, also known as 'Rocky's Law', sets forth specific requirements for the disclosure of an animal's medical and behavioral history by animal rescue organizations, shelters, pounds, and pet shops in New Jersey. The bill mandates that these entities compile comprehensive records regarding an animal's health, behavior, and prior history before making them available for adoption or sale. This includes a medical examination by a licensed veterinarian and a behavioral assessment from a certified animal behaviorist. The goal of the legislation is to ensure potential adopters or purchasers are fully informed about the animals they consider bringing into their homes.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding A167 is the balance between ensuring adequate protection for consumers and maintaining operational feasibility for animal rehoming organizations. Some stakeholders may argue that the heightened responsibility for recordkeeping and disclosure could strain smaller organizations and may inadvertently limit the number of animals they can adopt out. Additionally, there may be concerns regarding the sufficiency of the assessments and the burdens placed on shelters which may already be overwhelmed. This could lead to discussions among lawmakers about how best to address these challenges while still safeguarding the welfare of both animals and prospective pet owners.