Bill > A07779

This bill requires the Division of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) to create a veterinary care program for retired law enforcement dogs and fire investigation dogs, defining these as dogs previously used by law enforcement, correctional agencies, or fire departments for specific investigative or enforcement purposes and who have completed certified training. The program will cover the costs of comprehensive veterinary care, including routine check-ups, treatments, emergency care, and euthanasia, for the remainder of the dog's life, provided the agency they served participates and the dog meets eligibility criteria such as serving for at least five years, being retired due to injury, or being retired from THC detection work. Handlers or adopters of eligible dogs can be reimbursed for veterinary expenses upon submitting valid invoices, and the program's implementation is contingent on state appropriations.