NJ S80

Bill

NJ S80

Provides immunity from civil and criminal liability for rescue of animal from motor vehicle under inhumane conditions.

Introduced
01/09/2024

In Committee
01/09/2024

Crossed Over

Passed

Dead
01/12/2026

Introduced Session

2024-2025 Regular Session

Bill Summary

This bill provides civil and criminal immunity to persons who in good faith enter a motor vehicle to rescue an animal if the person reasonably believes that the animal is in immediate danger of bodily injury or death from the circumstances, and, prior to entering the motor vehicle, the rescuer adheres to certain conditions, notice requirements, and procedures. The bill also specifies that that the immunity from liability for property damage would attach only for any property damage caused in or by the rescue and for any injuries caused to the animal (including any allegations of animal cruelty) in or by the rescue, unless the rescuer engaged in reckless or willful misconduct.

AI Summary

This bill provides immunity from civil and criminal liability to individuals who, in good faith, enter a motor vehicle to rescue an animal they reasonably believe is in immediate danger of death or serious injury due to inhumane conditions like extreme heat or cold. Before entering, the rescuer must attempt to contact appropriate rescue personnel, such as law enforcement or animal control officers, and try to locate the animal's owner, unless immediate action is necessary. The immunity covers property damage to the vehicle and any injuries to the animal sustained during the rescue, as long as the rescuer did not act with reckless or willful misconduct. This protection is in addition to any other legal immunities that may apply.

Committee Categories

Business and Industry

Sponsors (2)

Nilsa Cruz-Perez (D)*, Jim Holzapfel (R),

Last Action

Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Economic Growth Committee (on 01/09/2024)

Official Document

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/S80

(3 Companion Bills)

Version:

Document Type	Source Location
State Bill Page	https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/S80
BillText	https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2026/S0500/80_I1.HTM
BillText	https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2024/S0500/80_I1.HTM

Bill	Bill Name	Last Action	Type
A2821	Provides immunity from civil and criminal liability for rescue of animal from motor vehicle under inhumane conditions.	Introduced, Referred to Assembly Agriculture and Food Security Committee	Carry Over
A3637	Provides immunity from civil and criminal liability for rescue of animal from motor vehicle under inhumane conditions.	Introduced, Referred to Assembly Commerce, Economic Development and Agriculture Committee	Same As
S1938	Provides immunity from civil and criminal liability for rescue of animal from motor vehicle under inhumane conditions.	Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Environment and Energy Committee	Carry Over

Bill > S80

summary

Introduced Session

Bill Summary

AI Summary

Committee Categories

Sponsors (2)

Last Action

Official Document

bill text

bill summary

bill summary

bill summary