CS/HB 1211 Summary

• Establishes the Care for Retired Law Enforcement Dogs Program within the Department of Law Enforcement to provide funding for veterinary care of retired law enforcement dogs.

• Department must contract with a nonprofit corporation meeting specific criteria (501(c)(3) status, dedicated to retired law enforcement dog protection, 5+ years exempt status) to administer the program.

• Reimburses former handlers and adopters $1,500 maximum per dog annually for veterinary services including examinations, vaccines, emergency care, surgeries, and euthanasia upon receipt of law enforcement agency verification and veterinarian invoices.

• Program funds held in separate depository account with nonprofit receiving no more than 10 percent of appropriations for administrative costs; unexpended funds carry forward with maximum balance of $400,000.

• Appropriates $300,000 in recurring General Revenue Fund dollars annually beginning in fiscal year 2014-2015; effective July 1, 2014.