NJ
New Jersey Senate Bill S1656

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill S1656

Introduced
1/9/24  

Caption

Establishes certain animal abuse offenses committed in manner manifesting extreme indifference to value of animal's life as crime of second degree; designated as "River's Law."

Impact

The introduction of S1656 would amend existing statutes related to animal cruelty, specifically R.S.4:22-17. The bill classifies severe acts of cruelty, such as torture or maiming, as crimes punishable by 5 to 10 years of imprisonment and fines reaching up to $150,000. Additionally, those convicted could face restitution payments for the care of the abused animal, thereby enforcing accountability for animal welfare and potentially reducing instances of abuse.

Summary

Senate Bill S1656, also known as 'River's Law', aims to strengthen penalties against severe animal abuse in New Jersey. The bill establishes certain offenses of animal abuse, particularly those exhibiting extreme indifference to the value of an animal's life, as a crime of the second degree. This legislative measure is aimed at enhancing the protection of domestic companion animals and is designed to deter acts of cruelty by imposing significant legal consequences on offenders.

Contention

The bill may bring up discussions around the adequacy of current animal protection laws in New Jersey and whether the increased penalties will effectively reduce animal cruelty incidents. Supporters argue that harsher penalties are necessary to protect vulnerable animals, while some opponents might raise concerns about the implications for pet owners and the potential for legal overreach in animal management practices.

Recognition

The bill is named in honor of River, an animal that exemplified the need for enhanced legal protections against grievous abuse. This designation is intended to raise public awareness about animal rights and the legal measures necessary to safeguard companion animals from harm.

Companion Bills

NJ A132

Same As Establishes certain animal abuse offenses committed in manner manifesting extreme indifference to value of animal's life as crime of second degree; designated as "River's Law."

NJ S633

Carry Over Establishes certain animal abuse offenses committed in manner manifesting extreme indifference to value of animal's life as crime of second degree; designated as "River's Law."

NJ A4664

Carry Over Establishes certain animal abuse offenses committed in manner manifesting extreme indifference to value of animal's life as crime of second degree; designated as "River's Law."

Previously Filed As

NJ S633

Establishes certain animal abuse offenses committed in manner manifesting extreme indifference to value of animal's life as crime of second degree; designated as "River's Law."

NJ A132

Establishes certain animal abuse offenses committed in manner manifesting extreme indifference to value of animal's life as crime of second degree; designated as "River's Law."

NJ A4664

Establishes certain animal abuse offenses committed in manner manifesting extreme indifference to value of animal's life as crime of second degree; designated as "River's Law."

NJ S1153

Requires mental health evaluation for all animal cruelty offenders; designated as "Shyanne's Law."

NJ A4540

Requires mental health evaluation for all animal cruelty offenders; designated as "Shyanne's Law."

NJ A296

Requires mental health evaluation for all animal cruelty offenders; designated as "Shyanne's Law."

NJ S1144

Establishes animal cruelty offense of animal hoarding; requires mental health counseling for all animal cruelty offenders.

NJ A2380

Establishes transporting for slaughter, selling or otherwise providing for slaughter, or slaughtering gestating cow as crime of fourth degree; establishes criminal and civil penalties therefor; designated as Brianna's Law.

NJ A3284

Establishes transporting for slaughter, selling or otherwise providing for slaughter, or slaughtering gestating cow as crime of fourth degree; establishes criminal and civil penalties therefor; designated as Brianna's Law.

NJ S1925

Prohibits cropping or altering the tail or ears of dog; establishes as animal cruelty offense.

Similar Bills

ME LD137

An Act to Expand the 1998 Special Retirement Plan to Include Employees Who Work for the Office of Chief Medical Examiner

ME LD794

An Act to Include Judicial Marshals in the 1998 Special Plan for Retirement

ME LD610

An Act to Expand the 1998 Special Retirement Plan to Include Employees Who Work for the Office of Chief Medical Examiner

ME LD1761

An Act to Include Certain Mental Health Workers Under the 1998 Special Plan for Retirement

ME LD579

An Act to Include Certain Mental Health Workers Under the 1998 Special Plan for Retirement

ME LD1760

An Act to Include Certain Crisis Outreach and Crisis Services Workers Under the 1998 Special Plan for Retirement

IA HF182

A bill for an act relating to controlled substances, including certain controlled substances schedules and precursor substances reporting requirements, making penalties applicable, and including effective date provisions. (Formerly HSB 25.) Effective date: 03/28/2025.

IA SF305

A bill for an act relating to controlled substances, including certain controlled substances schedules and precursor substances reporting requirements, making penalties applicable, and including effective date provisions.(Formerly SSB 1080.)