Bill > HB111

This bill amends New Mexico's Service Animal Act to expand definitions and create new responsibilities for first responders regarding service animals. Specifically, the bill adds a definition for "first responder" to include law enforcement officers, firefighters, and emergency medical services providers, and introduces a new requirement that these first responders make a reasonable effort to search for a missing qualified service animal during emergency situations, provided that such a search does not compromise human safety. The bill clarifies that a qualified service animal is a specially trained dog or miniature horse that assists individuals with disabilities, distinguishing it from emotional support or therapy animals. In emergency scenarios involving transportation or relocation, the bill emphasizes that efforts should be made to keep the service animal with its owner or handler, or to follow the owner's instructions for the animal's care if separation is unavoidable. This legislation aims to provide additional protection and support for individuals who rely on service animals by ensuring that first responders are aware of and responsive to the animal's potential loss during emergency situations.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Business and Industry

https://www.nmlegis.gov/Legislation/Legislation?chamber=H&legtype=B&legno=111&year=25