Senate Republican Leader Anthony M. Bucco’s bipartisan legislation has moved forward, receiving unanimous approval from the Senate Military and Veterans’ Affairs Committee. The bill aims to allow dogs, including emotional support animals, to visit residents at New Jersey’s State veterans’ residential facilities.
“Many veterans return home carrying invisible wounds from their service, including PTSD, anxiety, and depression, which are all too common,” said Senator Bucco (R-25). “Allowing visits from emotional support dogs can offer comfort, ease stress, and support their healing.”
The proposed legislation, identified as S-854, seeks to permit temporary dog visits at the state’s three veterans’ memorial homes located in Paramus, Menlo Park, and Vineland. It also includes the state’s two transitional housing facilities in Glen Gardner and Winslow.
Currently, federal law allows only service animals on federal VA properties. This new bill would extend those permissions at the state level by giving New Jersey veterans’ homes the authority to welcome emotional support animals and therapy dogs. These animals could be brought by family members or organizations such as shelters, veterans’ service groups, or nonprofits.
“This is a compassionate, commonsense step to improve the lives of our heroes who’ve sacrificed so much for our country and our freedoms,” added Bucco.
The full text of the bill is available online for public viewing.
