Bill > S4382

This bill prohibits animal rescue organizations, shelters, pounds, and foster homes from denying an adoption application for a dog or cat solely based on the applicant's age. By referencing existing legal definitions from New Jersey state law, the bill clarifies that these terms include various types of animal care facilities and temporary homes. The legislation requires that these organizations cannot use age as the exclusive reason for rejecting an adoption applicant, ensuring that potential pet adopters are evaluated based on other criteria such as their ability to care for an animal. The bill mandates that all animal adoption centers must review and update their adoption eligibility criteria to comply with this new requirement, which aims to prevent age discrimination in pet adoptions. The law will take effect immediately upon enactment, meaning animal rescue organizations and shelters in New Jersey will need to quickly adjust their adoption policies to align with the new guidelines.

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https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/S4382