The bill introduces the establishment of a task force to study the provision of emergency treatment and transportation for animals injured while performing duties under the supervision of a peace officer. The study will cover appropriate circumstances for such emergency services, required training for emergency medical services personnel, identification of veterinary facilities, decontamination and sterilization requirements, and scope of practice issues. The task force will include members appointed by various legislative leaders and will consist of individuals with experience in emergency medical services, police officers, and commissioners or their designees from relevant departments.

The task force is required to submit a report on its findings and recommendations by January 1, 2025, to the joint standing committee of the General Assembly related to public safety and security. The task force will terminate upon submission of the report or on January 1, 2025, whichever is later. The bill specifies that the task force will include new training aspects such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation and life-saving interventions, and it will also address the safe handling of animals. The bill has been assigned File No. 36 and does not anticipate any fiscal impact on the state or municipalities. The Office of Legislative Research does not analyze Special Acts, and the Public Safety and Security Committee has given a joint favorable recommendation.