Bill > HB990

This bill establishes a grant program administered by the Criminal Justice Coordinating Council to assist charitable organizations that help former handlers and adopters of retired law enforcement dogs with their veterinary care costs. A "retired law enforcement dog" is defined as a dog previously employed by a law enforcement or correctional agency in Georgia for duties like detecting crime, enforcing laws, or search and rescue, and which received certification from a recognized organization. "Veterinary care" is broadly defined to include routine check-ups, vaccinations, treatments, emergency care, surgery, and end-of-life services. The program aims to ease the financial burden on those caring for these specialized dogs, recognizing their contributions to public safety and the unique needs they may have in retirement. Funding for the grants will come from legislative appropriations and voluntary private donations, with private funds being used first. The council will set criteria for eligible charitable organizations, application procedures, grant amounts, and monitoring requirements, and will also create necessary rules and regulations.

Justice

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/72257