CA SB1278

Animal control officers appointed before July 1, 2015 must complete a course in arrest powers and warrant service by July 1, 2016; those appointed on or after July 1, 2015 must complete within one year of appointment.

Animal control officers must complete at least 40 hours of continuing education and training every three years, with at least four hours on arrest and warrant service powers taught by a certified instructor.

Officers appointed before July 1, 2015 must complete initial continuing education requirements by July 1, 2018; those appointed after must comply within three years of appointment.

Failure to complete required continuing education within 90 days after each three-year period results in immediate suspension of arrest and warrant service authority.

Dog license fees and fines collected for dog regulation violations may now be used to pay for initial and in-service training for animal control officers and other persons enforcing animal control laws.