New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A00663

Introduced
1/8/25  
Refer
1/8/25  

Caption

Establishes the canine officer health monitoring fund which allows for applicants to request reimbursement from the division of criminal justice services for health costs related to regular health or injury associated with canine officers.

Summary

Bill A00663 proposes the establishment of a Canine Officer Health Monitoring Fund within the New York State executive law. This fund would allow state agencies, municipal corporations, and public authorities that employ canine officers to apply for reimbursement of health costs associated with regular health maintenance or injuries incurred by these canine officers. The bill mandates that applicants seek any available federal funding before being eligible for state reimbursement, with provisions for waivers under certain circumstances. Additionally, it requires applicants to maintain records of prior reimbursements and the health status of each canine officer for accountability purposes.

Impact

The bill will amend existing state laws by introducing a new section to the executive law that specifically addresses the health monitoring and reimbursement for canine officers. This will create a structured process for funding health-related expenses for canine officers, potentially improving their care and management. The implementation of this fund may also lead to better tracking and reporting of canine officer health data, thus enhancing transparency and accountability in the use of public funds.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill A00663 appears to be generally positive, as it addresses the welfare of canine officers, which is a concern for many law enforcement agencies and the public. However, there may be some apprehension regarding the requirement to seek federal funds first, which could complicate the reimbursement process for some applicants.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the requirement for applicants to pursue federal funding before accessing state reimbursement. Some stakeholders may argue that this could create barriers for smaller agencies or municipalities that lack the resources to navigate federal funding applications. Additionally, there may be discussions about the adequacy of the reimbursement amounts and whether they will sufficiently cover the health costs incurred by canine officers.

Companion Bills

NY S01294

Same As Establishes the canine officer health monitoring fund which allows for applicants to request reimbursement from the division of criminal justice services for health costs related to regular health or injury associated with canine officers.

Previously Filed As

NY S01070

Establishes the canine officer health monitoring fund which allows for applicants to request reimbursement from the division of criminal justice services for health costs related to regular health or injury associated with canine officers.

NY A01494

Establishes the canine officer health monitoring fund which allows for applicants to request reimbursement from the division of criminal justice services for health costs related to regular health or injury associated with canine officers.

NY S01294

Establishes the canine officer health monitoring fund which allows for applicants to request reimbursement from the division of criminal justice services for health costs related to regular health or injury associated with canine officers.

NY LD2081

An Act to Provide Health Care Cost Reimbursement for Retired Law Enforcement Canines

NY A10793

Enacts the "veterinary care of retired law enforcement and fire service canines act" which establishes a program to cover the cost of veterinary services for retired law enforcement and fire service canines.

NY A11117

Enacts the "veterinary care of retired law enforcement and fire service canines act" to provide reimbursement for certain veterinary costs to owners of retired service canines which had served in law enforcement agencies and fire departments.

NY S09531

Enacts the "veterinary care of retired law enforcement and fire service canines act" to provide reimbursement for certain veterinary costs to owners of retired service canines which had served in law enforcement agencies and fire departments.

NY SR568

Children's Healthcare of Atlanta's facility dogs and their Canines For Kids Program; recognize

NY HR1031

Children's Healthcare of Atlanta's facility dogs and their Canines For Kids Program; commend

NY HB1719

Requires law enforcement officers to receive training on officer-canine encounters and canine behaviors

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