Connecticut House Bill HB07052

Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/19
• Refer: 1/31/19

Caption

An Act Allowing Emergency Medical Treatment Of State And Local Law Enforcement K9s.

Impact

The proposed legislation is intended to fill a crucial gap in the current legal framework regarding emergency medical treatment for K9s. By formally permitting emergency medical personnel to treat law enforcement dogs in distress, the bill encourages better care for these animals, who are often subjected to risky and hazardous conditions during their duties. This prompt medical care could potentially save the lives of K9s, thus preserving valuable assets for law enforcement agencies.

Summary

House Bill 07052 aims to amend the general statutes to allow emergency medical service providers to administer emergency medical treatment to law enforcement K9s. This bill recognizes the important role that K9 units play in law enforcement, assisting in various capacities such as search and rescue, narcotics detection, and community safety. The legislation seeks to ensure that these working dogs receive immediate medical attention in emergency situations, promoting their welfare and enhancing their ability to support law enforcement efforts.

Contention

While the bill enjoys broad support from many lawmakers and members of the public who view K9s as vital partners in ensuring public safety, there may be some debate regarding the allocation of resources for such medical treatments. Concerns could arise about the potential financial implications for local municipalities and emergency service providers tasked with implementing these new responsibilities. However, advocates argue that the benefits of protecting K9s in service far outweigh these considerations.