Bill
Bill > A304
NJ A304
NJ A304Establishes award of damages for pain and suffering to owner of pet cat or dog that dies due to malpractice or negligence by veterinarian, veterinary hospital, or other veterinary facility.
summary
Introduced
01/13/2026
01/13/2026
In Committee
01/13/2026
01/13/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2026-2027 Regular Session
Bill Summary
This bill establishes that, whenever a veterinarian, veterinary hospital, or other veterinary facility is found liable for the death of a pet cat or dog due to malpractice or negligence on the part of the veterinarian, veterinary hospital, or other veterinary facility, the owner of the pet would be entitled to, in addition to the reimbursement of the monetary value of the cat or dog and any cost of veterinary care, the award of not less than $5,000 in damages for pain and suffering due to the loss of the pet, as determined and awarded by the court finding the liability for the death of the pet cat or dog.
AI Summary
This bill establishes that if a veterinarian, veterinary hospital, or other animal care facility is found responsible for the death of a pet cat or dog due to their mistakes or carelessness (malpractice or negligence), the pet's owner will be able to receive compensation beyond just the pet's monetary value and any veterinary bills. Specifically, the owner will be entitled to at least $5,000 in damages to acknowledge the emotional distress and suffering caused by the loss of their beloved pet, with the court determining the final amount awarded.
Committee Categories
Business and Industry
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
Introduced, Referred to Assembly Regulated Professions Committee (on 01/13/2026)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2026/A304 |
| BillText | https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2026/A0500/304_I1.HTM |
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