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NJ A4220

Bill

Official Source

Status

Introduced

2/19/2026

Primary Sponsor

Carol Murphy

Click for details

Origin

General Assembly

2026-2027 Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Declares any will provision directing a fiduciary to euthanize a healthy domestic companion animal void and unenforceable as against public policy
  • Defines "domestic companion animal" as any pet acquired primarily for companionship rather than business or agricultural purposes
  • Applies to all fiduciaries including executors, administrators, guardians, and trustees handling a decedent's estate
  • Prompted by a 2019 Virginia case where a healthy Shih Tzu was euthanized per the owner's will despite an animal shelter offering to take the dog for adoption
  • Takes effect immediately upon enactment

Legislative Description

Bars enforcement of provision in decedent's will that would require euthanasia of healthy domestic companion animal.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

Last Action

Introduced, Referred to Assembly Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee

2/19/2026

Committee Referrals

Agriculture and Natural Resources2/19/2026

Full Bill Text

No bill text available