Requires establishment of municipal animal control programs and DOH oversight over such programs; appropriates $500,000 for grants to municipalities for associated costs.

This bill requires New Jersey municipalities to establish animal control programs that provide services, comply with state animal control laws, and implement protocols for handling animals outside owner control. Each municipality must appoint a municipal health officer to oversee the program and coordinate with animal control officers, shelters, and veterinarians. The bill appropriates $500,000 for grants to help municipalities cover implementation costs, with the Department of Health overseeing the grant process and ensuring compliance. It also requires municipalities to establish homeless cat programs, which may include managing cat colonies with specific requirements for veterinary care, spaying/neutering, and ear-tipping. These programs must be implemented through local ordinances with annual reporting to the Department of Health.