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

New Jersey's Assembly Bill A296, designated "Shyanne's Law," requires a mental health evaluation for all individuals convicted of animal cruelty, whether as an adult or juvenile. The bill amends existing law to mandate that courts order a licensed psychologist or therapist to conduct the evaluation and, if needed, recommend mental health counseling for the offender. Costs for the evaluation and any required counseling must be paid by the offender (for adults) or the juvenile's parents/guardians (for minors). This requirement applies to all animal cruelty convictions under the state's current statute, including offenses like abuse, neglect, or causing unnecessary harm to animals. The law aims to address potential underlying issues in offenders while creating a court record of these requirements.