Bill > H512

This bill provides a legal exemption for emergency medical services (EMS) personnel to provide medical care to injured K-9 police animals and certified search and rescue dogs during emergencies. Specifically, the bill amends existing state law to allow EMS personnel to provide emergency medical transport or services to these specialized animals without requiring a veterinary license, which would normally be necessary for treating animals. The bill also establishes limited legal immunity for EMS personnel who provide such emergency care, protecting them from prosecution as long as they act in good faith and do not engage in gross negligence or intentional wrongdoing. The definition of search and rescue dogs is narrowly defined as those certified by a national organization and deployed by or contracted to work with federal, state, or local agencies. Emergency medical dispatchers are explicitly excluded from being considered EMS personnel under this provision. The bill will take effect 30 days after becoming law and will apply to acts occurring on or after that date, providing clear guidelines for emergency responders who need to provide urgent medical assistance to working dogs in critical situations.

Government Affairs, Health and Social Services, Justice

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/H512