New Jersey Senate Bill S2922

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/27/22
• Refer: 6/27/22
• Report Pass: 5/18/23
• Refer: 5/18/23

Caption

Establishes offense of reckless trespass involving wild animals; establishes penalties; establishes liability for resulting harm to wild animal.

Impact

If enacted, S2922 would classify reckless trespass as a disorderly persons offense if there is no harm to the animal, escalating to a fourth-degree crime if the wild animal is injured, and then to a third-degree crime if the animal is killed. This creates a tiered system of legal repercussions that reflects the severity of the offense and underlines the value placed on the welfare of wild animals. The bill further stipulates that individuals convicted will be liable for damages related to the incident, including the costs associated with the injury or death of the animal.

Summary

Senate Bill S2922 introduces the offense of reckless trespass involving wild animals, addressing instances where individuals illegally enter enclosures containing such animals. The bill provides that a person commits this offense by entering an area where wild animals are housed without permission and either harassing the animals or being attacked by them. It aims to protect both the animals and the individuals by establishing clear legal boundaries and consequences for unauthorized behaviors around these animals.

Conclusion

Ultimately, S2922 represents a significant move towards stronger legal protections for wild animals in captivity, establishing clear guidelines for public interaction with these creatures. The legislation not only outlines defined penalties but also ensures that guardians of juveniles are held accountable for their children's actions, emphasizing shared responsibility in upholding animal welfare and safety.

Contention

The discussion surrounding S2922 highlights the balance between public safety and animal welfare. Proponents argue that the bill is necessary to deter reckless behavior that could lead to harm against both wild animals and individuals. Critics may raise concerns over the potential for exaggerated interpretations of what constitutes harassment or unauthorized entry, which could lead to overly punitive measures for relatively harmless actions.