Bill > H300

This bill establishes a comprehensive veterinary care reimbursement program for retired first responder canines in North Carolina, creating a new state fund to support these working dogs after their service. The program allows owners of retired canines from law enforcement, fire departments, and correctional agencies to receive up to $1,500 per fiscal year for veterinary expenses, including wellness exams, vaccinations, treatments, medications, emergency care, and even euthanasia. To qualify, a canine must have retired on or after July 1, 2024, and must have previously been certified in specialized work such as criminal detection, law enforcement, search and rescue, or explosive/narcotic detection. Owners must first register with the Department of Public Safety, providing proof of ownership and the canine's service certification, and submit detailed veterinary care invoices within 90 days of treatment. The bill creates a dedicated Retired First Responder Canine Fund with an initial appropriation of $400,000, and explicitly states that participation is optional and does not affect any other existing benefits for these working dogs. The Department of Public Safety will manage the program, with the authority to set rules and make final determinations about reimbursements, and the personal information of canine owners will be kept confidential.

Budget and Finance, Military Affairs and Security

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/H300