Requires handlers of dogs used in law enforcement be provided opioid antidote.
The enactment of A2849 is expected to significantly enhance the safety of law enforcement dogs across the state. Given the rising incidents of overdose-related complications due to opioids, this bill addresses an important public safety concern. With law enforcement dogs being valuable assets for various operations, ensuring their health and safety can help maintain effective policing. By mandating the availability of opioid antidotes, the bill acts as a preventative measure against fatal incidents, thus safeguarding both the dogs and their handlers from potential tragedies.
Assembly Bill A2849 requires that each handler of a dog owned or used by law enforcement agencies in New Jersey be provided with a one-dose supply of an opioid antidote, specifically naloxone hydrochloride. This provision is aimed at preventing potential fatalities among law enforcement dogs, particularly those trained in narcotic detection, which may be exposed to fentanyl and other strong opioids during their duties. The bill delegates the authority to the Attorney General to establish guidelines for implementing this requirement, ensuring that handlers are adequately equipped to respond in case of an overdose incident involving their canine partners.
While the bill has several advocates pointing to the tragic cases of dogs affected by opioid exposure, it also faces scrutiny regarding the necessity for such a mandate and the implications it might have on resource allocation for police departments. Some may argue that the cost and logistics of distributing and storing naloxone properly might strain local police agency budgets. However, proponents contend that the potential cost of losing a trained dog, which can reach up to $30,000, outweighs the approximate $50 price for naloxone, making it a cost-effective investment in the safety of both the animals and law enforcement personnel.