This bill introduces Chapter 167-E, which establishes certification standards for facility comfort dogs, their handlers, and the teams they form. A "facility comfort dog" is defined as a specially trained dog that provides emotional support and crisis response in settings like hospitals and schools, distinct from service dogs or emotional support animals. The bill outlines the roles of a "facility comfort dog handler," who is responsible for the dog's care and supervision, and a "facility comfort dog team," which consists of the dog and its handler. It also defines terms related to public safety and emergency response workers, such as "local dispatcher" and "telecommunicator."

The legislation mandates specific training and certification requirements for both facility comfort dogs and their handlers, including initial training by the dog's second birthday and ongoing training in emergency environments. Agencies employing these dogs must maintain detailed training records and comply with state and local licensing and rabies certification ordinances. The bill also sets certification requirements for facility comfort dog teams, prohibits interference during their duties, and includes humane treatment provisions for the dogs. The act will take effect 60 days after its passage.