A 3644 New Jersey General Assembly · 2026-2027 Regular Session

Establishes certain animal abuse offenses committed in manner manifesting extreme indifference to value of animal's life as crime of second degree; designated as "River's Law."

This bill creates a new second-degree crime for animal cruelty that demonstrates "extreme indifference to the value of an animal's life," specifically targeting abuse of domestic companion animals. It elevates penalties for severe cases where cruelty causes death, serious injury, or involves prior offenses, moving them from fourth-degree to second-degree crimes. Offenders must also complete up to 30 days of community service with animal welfare organizations and pay restitution for veterinary costs, animal replacement, or investigation expenses. The law directly affects owners or caretakers who cause such severe harm, with penalties including fines, imprisonment, and mandatory community service.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Jan 2026
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Jan 13, 2026 Last action Jan 13, 2026
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Jan 13, 2026
Introduced
Introduced, Referred to Assembly Judiciary Committee
lower
1 primary · 2 co-sponsors

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