Bill > HB1281

This bill establishes a comprehensive framework for defining, training, and managing facility comfort dogs in emergency response and public safety settings. The legislation defines a facility comfort dog as an agency-owned dog specifically trained to provide emotional support and comfort in high-stress environments like hospitals, schools, and disaster areas, while explicitly clarifying that these dogs are not service dogs or emotional support animals. The bill mandates rigorous training standards for both the dogs and their handlers, including requiring the dogs to obtain an American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen certificate, participate in ongoing quarterly training, and be spayed or neutered. Handlers must complete multiple certification courses, including Mental Health First Aid and Emergency First Aid for Dogs, and engage in regular training. The bill also outlines specific care requirements for facility comfort dogs, such as proper licensing, insurance, dietary restrictions, and travel protocols. Additionally, the legislation requires clear identification of facility comfort dogs and handlers through unique patches and establishes a central tracking system for individual dogs. The bill aims to professionalize and standardize the use of comfort dogs in public service settings, ensuring their effectiveness and well-being while maintaining clear boundaries about their role and capabilities.

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https://gc.nh.gov/bill_Status/billinfo.aspx?id=2067&inflect=2