Louisiana House Bill HB539

Louisiana 2016 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/3/16
• Refer: 3/3/16
• Refer: 3/14/16
• Report Pass: 4/14/16
• Engrossed: 4/25/16
• Refer: 4/26/16
• Report Pass: 5/3/16
• Enrolled: 6/3/16
• Chaptered: 6/17/16
• Passed: 6/17/16

Caption

Authorizes the use of human biological matter for purposes of training cadaver dogs

Impact

The passage of HB 539 is expected to have a positive impact on the capabilities of search and rescue operations throughout Louisiana. By providing official guidelines for the donation of biological materials, the bill facilitates a more streamlined process for obtaining necessary training resources. This could lead to better-trained dogs, thereby improving the success rates of locating missing persons and human remains in various scenarios, thus potentially saving lives and providing closure to grieving families.

Summary

House Bill 539, introduced by Representative Hazel, authorizes the donation of human biological samples for the training of dogs used in search and rescue operations. Specifically, the bill enables coroners to donate tissue and biological samples to individuals affiliated with established search and rescue dog organizations. This legislative measure aims to enhance the effectiveness of training programs for dogs that specialize in locating human remains, which is particularly important in recovery operations following disasters or criminal investigations.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding House Bill 539 appears to be largely supportive, with many viewing it as a positive step toward enhancing public safety and the efficacy of search and rescue efforts. The acknowledgment of the unique training needs of search dogs reflects a growing understanding of their critical role in emergency response and recovery situations. Discussions around the bill seem to indicate a consensus on the importance of providing dogs with proper training resources, although some concerns about ethical considerations related to the use of human biological materials may have been raised.

Contention

While the bill has generally received favorable reviews, some points of contention may arise regarding the ethical implications of using human biological materials for training purposes. Questions about consent and the appropriateness of using tissue samples from deceased individuals could be potential areas of debate. Additionally, ensuring that the process of donation is handled sensitively and respectfully will be critical in addressing any concerns from the public or within the medical community. Overall, the emphasis on regulation and ethical standards in the donation process will be essential to mitigate these concerns.