NC H550

Authorizes the State or local government units to transfer ownership of retired service animals (horses, dogs, or other animals used for law enforcement, public safety, or emergency services) to specified individuals upon determination the animal is no longer fit or needed for public service.

Permits transfer of retired service animals to the officer or employee who had normal custody and control of the animal during its public service.

Allows transfer to a surviving spouse of a deceased officer or employee, or to surviving children if the officer or employee was killed in the line of duty and had no surviving spouse.

Permits transfer to organizations or programs dedicated to the assistance or support of service animals retired from public service.

Authorizes the State or local government to set the transfer price and other terms and conditions for the animal's disposition, effective October 1, 2016.