Establishes Animal Advocate Program in AOC.
S 405 creates a two-year pilot program in New Jersey's courts to appoint advocates for animals in specific criminal cases involving animal welfare, such as cruelty or dog fighting prosecutions. Courts may appoint a volunteer advocate from a list maintained by the Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC) to monitor cases, access animal-related records, and recommend the animal's best interests - including placement - to the court. The program targets cases under statutes governing animal cruelty (R.S. 4:22-17) or dog fighting (P.L. 2015, c.85), with advocates selected from qualified attorneys or law students familiar with animal welfare law. The program expires after two years, requiring a report on implementation and whether it should continue.
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 in the Senate, Referred to Senate Economic Growth Committee
upper
1 primary · 0 co-sponsors
Sponsors
Role
Legislator
Party
State
District
P
Brian Stack
DDemocratic
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