This bill establishes a three-year pilot program within the New Jersey Department of Education (DOE) to evaluate the academic and health benefits of incorporating therapy dogs into public elementary school wellness programs. School districts interested in participating must submit an application detailing the number of elementary schools, student enrollment, wellness program participation, and plans for utilizing therapy dogs to enhance student wellness. The Commissioner of Education will select two districts from each of the southern, central, and northern regions of the state, ensuring a diverse representation of urban, suburban, and rural areas.

Additionally, the bill mandates that the commissioner provide guidance to participating districts on the implementation of therapy dogs, including suggested activities, training requirements for handlers, health evaluations for the dogs, and insurance considerations. By June 30 of the third school year after the program's initiation, the commissioner is required to submit a report to the Governor and the Legislature assessing the program's effectiveness in improving students' academic performance and health outcomes.