This bill allows dogs, including emotional support dogs, to visit residents at State veterans residential facilities in New Jersey on a temporary basis. Family members of residents can bring their dogs to visit, and animal shelters, nonprofit organizations, and charity groups may also bring dogs at the request of the facility. The Department of Military and Veterans Affairs is tasked with considering the health and respiratory needs of residents when allowing dogs and must adopt regulations consistent with federal law. The bill outlines specific requirements for the control of dogs, including the use of harnesses or leashes, and provides guidelines for when dogs may be denied access to the facilities.

Additionally, the bill specifies that dogs brought by family members must be under control, while dogs from organizations may be off-leash outdoors at the discretion of the handler and facility management. Dogs can be removed if they are not under control, are not trained to eliminate waste outdoors, or pose a health or safety risk. The bill also clarifies that the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs retains the authority to establish rules regarding the overnight or permanent presence of dogs at the facilities.