HB 5176 Summary

• Establishes a task force to study emergency treatment and transportation for animals injured while performing duties under peace officer supervision.

• Task force shall examine circumstances for emergency treatment, training requirements for emergency medical services personnel including first aid and animal handling, identification of veterinary facilities, equipment decontamination requirements, and scope of practice issues.

• Task force consists of 12 members including emergency medical services providers, police officers, state police representatives, legislators, and the Commissioners of Emergency Services and Public Protection and Public Health.

• Initial appointments must be made within 30 days of the bill's effective date, with the first task force meeting scheduled within 60 days.

• Task force must submit findings and recommendations to the joint standing committee on public safety and security by January 1, 2025, and shall terminate on that date or upon report submission, whichever is later.