BILL NUMBER: S2041
SPONSOR: MURRAY
 
TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the executive law, in relation to providing for the care
of retired law enforcement dogs
 
PURPOSE:
The purpose of this bill is to direct DCJS to create a program to reim-
burse owners or adopters of retired police k-9s for the veterinary care
of the dog for the remainder of their lives.
 
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:
Section 1 adds a new section 844 to the executive law providing defi-
nitions of "retired law enforcement dog", "law enforcement agency",
"correctional agency", and "veterinary care". Directs the Division of
Criminal Justice Services to establish a program for the care of retired
law enforcement dogs, including lifetime veterinary care, and to promul-
gate rules and regulations to effectuate the program.
Section two states that the program to an appropriation to the Division
out of the general fund.
Section three establishes the effective date.
 
JUSTIFICATION:
Law enforcement dogs provide our state with unmatched protection from
criminals and terrorists. With their incredible senses of smell, they
are most effective in detecting explosives, guns, nuclear or hazardous
materials, locating illicit drugs or weapons, apprehending criminals,
and are even, vital in assisting search and rescue operations.
Typically, upon retirement, the dog's handler will adopt the dog and
take it home as a pet. However, oftentimes the officer may not be able
to afford the veterinary bills, which can be significant, since these
dogs are older and have sustained injuries while doing their job. Sadly,
they can end up in a shelter or even be put to sleep because there is no
one to care for them. This bill would ensure that these law enforcement
dogs are properly taken care of for the remainder of their lives by
creating a State funded program and providing owners with cost
reimbursement for their veterinary care.
 
LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:
2024: S5684A Amended and Recommitted to Finance
 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:
Undetermined
 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
The first of April next succeeding the date the bill is signed into law.