Health: emergency services; emergency medical transport and treatment for retired police canines; provide for. Amends sec. 20925 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.20925).
Impact
The proposed amendments in HB4012 would directly amend Section 20925 of the Public Health Code, adding provisions that specifically address the treatment of police dogs. By recognizing the need for emergency transport specifically for these animals, the bill underscores their contributions to law enforcement and elevates their status in terms of health care provisions. This reflects a broader trend in legislation that recognizes the roles of service animals, particularly in law enforcement.
Summary
House Bill 4012 aims to amend the Michigan Public Health Code to allow ambulances to transport police dogs that are injured in the line of duty or retired police dogs requiring immediate medical treatment. This legislation is particularly significant as it clarifies the conditions under which such transports can occur, ensuring that public safety personnel can prioritize the health of law enforcement animals when emergency circumstances allow. The bill states that as long as there are no individuals needing transport or emergency assistance, an ambulance may provide service for these dogs.
Contention
There may be some debates surrounding the implementation of this bill, particularly concerning the logistics of such transports. Questions could arise regarding the resource allocation for ambulance services, the availability of appropriate veterinary care, and the potential need for adjustments to emergency response protocols. While the bill enjoys support from animal advocacy groups and law enforcement representatives who view it as a recognition of police dogs' roles, others may raise concerns about whether this could divert resources from human emergencies.
Notable_points
A significant aspect of HB4012 is its definition of police dogs and retired police dogs, which echoes established definitions in existing law. This clarity will help ensure that all stakeholders, including educational institutions for veterinary training and emergency service workers, have a unified understanding of the provisions. Furthermore, the requirement for a police officer to accompany the pet during transport adds another layer of safety and accountability, reflecting an integrated approach to emergency care for these animals.
Health: emergency services; emergency medical transport and treatment for retired police canines; provide for. Amends sec. 20925 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.20925).
Health occupations: emergency medical services personnel; examinations for certain emergency medical services personnel; modify, and require certain notices from education program sponsors. Amends secs. 20904, 20912, 20950, 20952 & 20954 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.20904 et seq.).
Health occupations: emergency medical services personnel; licensure of medical first responders and emergency medical technicians; allow at 17 years of age. Amends sec. 20950 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.20950). TIE BAR WITH: HB 5154'23
Health: medical examiners; process for medical certification of a death record; modify. Amends secs. 2804, 2843, 2843b, 2844 & 16221 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.2804 et seq.).
Health occupations: emergency medical services personnel; certain temporary licenses; modify terms. Amends sec. 20952 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.20952). TIE BAR WITH: HB 4614'23
Animals: pet shops; inspection and licensure of certain pet facilities; require. Amends title & secs. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 5a, 6, 7, 8, 9, 9b, 9c & 10 of 1969 PA 287 (MCL 287.331 et seq.); adds sec. 7a & repeals sec. 9d of 1969 PA 287 (MCL 287.339d).
Animals: care and treatment; restitution for care and treatment of certain forfeited animals; impose penalties upon owner. Amends sec. 50 of 1931 PA 328 (MCL 750.50).
Health occupations: emergency medical services personnel; relicensure after expiration of certain licenses; expand. Amends sec. 20954 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.20954).