This bill appropriates an additional $150,000 to the Department of Community Affairs specifically for the Atlantic County Animal Shelter to implement a one-year spay-and-neuter clinic aimed at controlling the county's cat population and enhancing public health. The funding will provide free spay, neuter, and vaccination services to participants, addressing the issue of feral cats in New Jersey, which have been linked to high rates of impoundment and euthanasia in animal shelters. The initiative is designed to reduce the overpopulation of cats, which often results from abandonment and uncontrolled breeding.

The bill emphasizes the cost-effectiveness of spaying and neutering, noting that for every dollar spent on these services, there is a potential savings of $13 in future costs related to animal control and sheltering. By facilitating this clinic, the bill aims to promote humane animal care and control, ultimately reducing the financial burden on county governments and nonprofit organizations associated with animal impoundment and euthanasia. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.