SB13-226: Dog Protection Act Summary

• Requires Colorado local law enforcement agencies to provide minimum three-hour training to officers on dog behavior, nonlethal alternatives, and differentiating between aggressive and benign dog behaviors by January 1, 2015.

• Mandates each local law enforcement agency adopt written policies and procedures addressing dog encounters by September 1, 2014, including alternatives to lethal force and allowing dog owners or animal control officers reasonable opportunity to remove dogs when feasible.

• Creates 19-member Dog Protection Task Force to develop minimum training curricula, specify trainer qualifications, and develop web/video-based training by July 1, 2014; task force dissolves January 31, 2015.

• Training must be provided or overseen by qualified animal behavior expert or licensed veterinarian; agencies may use web/video training and collaborate with professional organizations to reduce costs.

• Applies only to municipal police departments and county sheriffs' offices; does not affect Peace Officers Standards and Training Board authority or impoundment/euthanasia procedures under existing law.