This bill appropriates an additional $150,000 to the Department of Community Affairs specifically for the Atlantic County Animal Shelter to establish a one-year spay-and-neuter clinic aimed at controlling the cat population in the county. The funding will provide free spay, neuter, and vaccination services to participants, addressing the issue of feral cats that proliferate due to inadequate management of spaying and neutering. The bill highlights the significant impact of cats on animal shelters, noting that they accounted for over half of the animals impounded and nearly 80% of those euthanized in New Jersey in 2017.

The legislation emphasizes the cost-effectiveness of spaying and neutering as a means to reduce pet overpopulation and associated costs, with a reported savings of $13 for every dollar spent on these services. By implementing this pilot clinic, the bill aims to improve public health and animal welfare in Atlantic County, ultimately reducing the financial burden on local governments and nonprofit organizations related to animal control and care. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.