FL S0976

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

Department shall contract with a nonprofit corporation meeting specified criteria (5+ years tax-exempt status, dedicated to retired law enforcement dogs) to administer the program through a competitive grant process.

Eligible retired law enforcement dogs must have been certified in obedience and apprehension work by organizations such as the National Police Canine Association and previously served a Florida law enforcement agency.

Reimburses former handlers and adopters up to $1,500 annually per dog for veterinary care including examinations, treatments, emergency care, surgery, and euthanasia upon submission of valid documentation and paid invoices.

Appropriates $300,000 in recurring General Revenue Fund dollars annually beginning in fiscal year 2019-2020, with up to 10 percent available for the nonprofit's administrative expenses.