"Chiara's Law"; prohibits euthanizing animals in shelters or pounds except for health or safety reasons.

S 2173, "Chiara's Law," requires New Jersey animal shelters and pounds to hold impounded animals for at least seven days before euthanizing them, unless specific exceptions apply. The bill prohibits euthanasia except for health/safety reasons (like rabies suspicion) or when an animal is voluntarily surrendered by its owner. Shelters must provide written notice to owners and allow up to seven days for claimants to provide proof of ownership (e.g., license, vet records) or pay holding fees. Animals cannot be sold for experimentation under this law. This directly affects all municipal shelters, pounds, and kennels operating in New Jersey.