Bill > HB3544

This bill establishes the Care for Retired Police Dogs Program within the University of Illinois system to provide financial support for veterinary care for retired police dogs. The program recognizes the critical contributions of police dogs in law enforcement and correctional agencies, acknowledging their dangerous service and unique skills. To be eligible for reimbursement, a retired police dog must have served at least 5 years with one or more law enforcement or correctional agencies, or have been injured in the line of duty. The University of Illinois will contract with a qualifying not-for-profit corporation to administer the program, which will disburse grants to former handlers or adopters of retired police dogs. Reimbursements are limited to $1,500 per dog annually and are subject to available appropriations from the Illinois Police K-9 Memorial Fund. The not-for-profit organization managing the program can use up to 10% of the appropriated funds for administrative expenses. The bill defines key terms such as "retired police dog" and "veterinary care" and requires the Board of Trustees to adopt rules for implementing the program. Additionally, the bill makes a minor amendment to the Illinois Vehicle Code related to police K-9 memorial license plates.

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https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocNum=3544&GAID=18&DocTypeID=HB&SessionID=114&GA=104