This bill requires all municipalities in New Jersey to establish a municipal animal control program that provides essential animal control services and enforces state laws regarding animal control and cruelty. Municipalities are mandated to prioritize funding for these programs and appoint a municipal health officer to oversee their implementation and compliance. The health officer will coordinate with various stakeholders, including certified animal control officers, shelters, and veterinarians, and is responsible for quarterly reporting to both the municipal governing body and the State Office of Veterinary Public Health. The Department of Health (DOH) will oversee these municipal programs and address complaints that are not resolved locally.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions for municipalities to create programs specifically for the humane treatment and management of homeless cats, establishing a grant program with an initial appropriation of $500,000 to assist municipalities in meeting the bill's requirements. The State Office of Veterinary Public Health is empowered to intervene in municipal contracts for private animal control services if compliance is lacking, and it can revise contract provisions related to animal impoundment and public health threats. Municipalities that allow cat colonies must ensure that care is managed by vetted individuals or representatives from animal rescue organizations, with specific requirements for veterinary care and reporting. The DOH is also tasked with developing rules and regulations to ensure uniform enforcement of animal control laws statewide.