"Chiara's Law"; prohibits euthanizing animals in shelters or pounds except for health or safety reasons.

Chiara's Law amends New Jersey law to require animal shelters and pounds to hold impounded animals for at least seven days before euthanizing or adopting them, except in specific cases. It directly affects municipal animal control officers, shelters, and pounds by mandating a 7-day holding period for most impounded animals (dogs and cats), including notifying owners and offering adoption opportunities. Key provisions include requiring shelters to release unclaimed animals to owners who provide proof of ownership, charging reasonable fees for care or sterilization, and prohibiting euthanasia for non-health/safety reasons during the holding period. Exceptions apply for animals suspected of rabies, voluntarily surrendered animals, or if an owner fails to meet requirements.