This bill mandates that any cat, dog, or ferret used in product testing or research in New Jersey must be assessed for adoption suitability once the testing is completed. If deemed suitable, these animals must be offered to an animal rescue organization or private individual for adoption. The bill expands upon the existing Homes for Animal Heroes Act to include ferrets in the adoption process and establishes procedures for the assessment and disposition of these animals. The Office of Veterinary Public Health (OVPH) in the Department of Health is tasked with monitoring compliance and enforcing the provisions related to the assessment and adoption requirements.

Additionally, the bill requires companies and institutions involved in animal testing to register with the OVPH and report specific details about the animals used, including their condition and adoption status. Noncompliance with these requirements can result in civil penalties, with fines escalating for repeated offenses. The bill also emphasizes the establishment of a registry and database of animal rescue organizations that accept animals used in testing, ensuring that suitable animals are placed in caring homes.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 4:19-15.33, 18A:3B-85