Bill > S2922

This bill establishes the offense of "reckless trespass involving wild animals," which occurs when a person enters an area where a wild animal is housed without legal authority and unintentionally or intentionally harasses the animal or is attacked by it. The offense is a disorderly persons offense if no harm is caused to the animal, a fourth-degree crime if bodily injury is caused, and a third-degree crime if the animal is killed. The person responsible is also liable for any damage or loss of property, and if the person is a juvenile, their parents or legal guardian may be liable if they recklessly or negligently allowed the juvenile to commit the trespass. The bill also specifies that certain defenses, such as the area not being sufficiently secured or the animal not being provoked, are not valid. The bill does not apply to individuals entering the area to aid another person or the wild animal.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2022/S2922