The bill aims to limit liability for the use of trained police dogs and establishes new standards for canine training in detecting fentanyl. A new section is added to chapter 43.101 RCW, mandating the commission to develop model standards for training and certification of canine teams by July 1, 2025. This development will involve consultations with various experts, including those from law enforcement, canine training organizations, and medical professionals, to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the canines in detecting controlled substances, particularly opioids like fentanyl.

Additionally, the bill amends RCW 4.24.410 to clarify definitions related to police dogs and their handlers. It introduces the term "lawful application of a police dog," which refers to the legal use of police dogs, and states that dog handlers acting in good faith are immune from civil damages arising from their use of police dogs or accelerant detection dogs. Furthermore, it specifies that state or local governments and law enforcement agencies are not strictly liable for damages resulting from the lawful application of a police dog.

Statutes affected:
Bill as Passed Legislature: 4.24.410
Session Law: 4.24.410