A 5065 New Jersey General Assembly · 2026-2027 Regular Session

Prohibits harassing or taking of certain wildlife at competitive event; establishes penalties.

This bill prohibits the harassment or capture of specific animals, such as bobcats, raccoons, and squirrels, during competitive events where participants are rewarded for taking wildlife. It also bans individuals from organizing or participating in such events if they involve harming these animals, with the only exception being licensed field trials. Violators face criminal charges and a five-year suspension of their hunting licenses and wildlife possession privileges. Additionally, the law mandates that any injured animals be treated by professionals and requires the state to take ownership of remains from illegal events. Law enforcement agencies and wildlife officials are authorized to enforce these new restrictions.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
May 2026
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced May 14, 2026 Last action May 14, 2026
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May 14, 2026
Introduced
Introduced, Referred to Assembly Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee
lower
1 primary · 0 co-sponsors

Sponsors

Role
Legislator
Party
State
District
P
Photo of Carol Murphy
Carol Murphy
DDemocratic
NJ
7