The proposed bill, Substitute House Bill No. 6964, establishes a task force aimed at studying the provision of emergency treatment and transportation for animals injured while performing duties under the supervision of peace officers. The task force will examine various aspects, including the appropriate circumstances for emergency treatment, necessary training for emergency medical services personnel, identification of veterinary facilities, decontamination and sterilization requirements for equipment, and issues related to the scope of practice for emergency medical services personnel. The task force will consist of members appointed by various legislative leaders and relevant officials, including police officers and emergency services providers.

The bill mandates that all initial appointments to the task force be made within thirty days of its effective date, with the first meeting scheduled within sixty days. The task force is required to submit a report of its findings and recommendations to the General Assembly's public safety and security committee by January 1, 2026, after which it will terminate. Notably, the bill includes a clarification in the language regarding "treatment and transportation to an animal," which has been revised to "treatment to, and transportation of, an animal" for clarity. Overall, the bill does not impose any fiscal impact on the state or municipalities, as the task force is expected to have the necessary expertise to fulfill its objectives.