MI HB5495

Amends the wolf-dog cross regulatory law (2000 PA 246) to expand the definition of "law enforcement officer" to include peace officers trained and licensed under the Michigan commission on law enforcement standards act.

Defines "expert on wolf-dog cross identification" as an individual with at least 10 years of cumulative training and field experience in wolf and wolf-dog cross behavioral and morphological characteristics, recognized as an expert at state and national levels.

Establishes definitions for key terms including "wolf-dog cross" (resulting from breeding of wolves with dogs, or wolf-dog crosses with other canids), "wolf," "dog," and "facility" for wolf-dog cross containment.

Creates framework for permit issuance and enforcement by local units through designated permitting agencies and animal control officers.

Effective date is January 2, 2017, contingent on Senate Bill No. 92 of the 98th Legislature also being enacted into law.