HF 490: Allowing police service dogs to receive emergency veterinary medical services while on duty

What it does

BACKGROUND. Current law provides for veterinary medical services that include diagnosing or treating an animal’s injury. The services are required to be provided by a veterinarian holding a license or temporary permit issued by the Iowa board of veterinary medicine (Code chapter 169).4). BILL’S PROVISIONS —— GENERAL PROVISIONS., county sheriff or deputy, police officer employed by a city, or member of the department of public safety). The police service dog must be injured while on duty, the injury must be severe, and the aid must be necessary to immediately stabilize the police service dog’s condition for later diagnosis or treatment by a licensed veterinarian or temporary permit holder.

House subcommittee · named February 27, 2025

• Rep. Skyler Wheeler (R) · skyler.wheeler@legis.iowa.gov
• Rep. Steven C. Holt (R) · steven.holt@legis.iowa.gov
• Rep. Dr. Megan L. Srinivas (D) · megan.srinivas@legis.iowa.gov

Lobbying · 5 for, 0 against

For: AFSCME Council 61; Animal Rescue League Iowa, Inc.; Humane World for Animals; Iowa Fraternal Order of Police; Iowa Veterinary Medical Association

In plain words

1. February 20, 2025Filed in the House and sent to the Judiciary committee
2. February 27, 2025House subcommittee named: Wheeler, Holt and Srinivas
3. March 5, 2025Subcommittee recommended passing it