NJ S4627

Creates the offense of "negligent handling of a dog" as a petty disorderly persons offense for individuals who violate local leash laws four or more times, with violations tracked per handler regardless of which dogs are involved

Establishes "reckless handling of a dog" as a criminal offense ranging from disorderly persons offense to third-degree crime depending on severity, covering situations where a dog injures a person, cat, or other dog without justification

Imposes civil penalties ranging from $500 to $5,000 depending on offense severity, which may be reduced by restitution payments to victims for medical/veterinary expenses, lost earnings, and damages

Grants victims or owners of victimized animals the right to request a municipal court hearing to determine whether an attacking dog should be declared vicious or potentially dangerous

Requires animal control officers to provide written notice to victims about their right to file a vicious or potentially dangerous dog complaint, and to refer cases to municipal prosecutors after issuing four or more notices to the same individual