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

S 2864 requires all New Jersey municipalities to establish and fund animal control programs that provide services, comply with state animal control laws, and appoint a municipal health officer to oversee operations. Key provisions include mandating certified animal control officers to patrol at least twice weekly, respond immediately to animal safety threats, and follow specific protocols for sick animals, cruelty cases, or stray animals. The Department of Health (DOH) will oversee these programs through municipal health officers, review complaints about inadequate enforcement, and adopt rules to ensure statewide consistency. The bill appropriates $500,000 in grants to help municipalities cover the costs of implementing these new requirements.