SF 296: 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 March 13, 2025

• Rep. Mike Vondran (R) · mike.vondran@legis.iowa.gov
• Rep. Eric J. Gjerde (D) · eric.gjerde@legis.iowa.gov
• Rep. John H. Wills (R) · john.wills@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 12, 2025Filed in the Senate
2. February 12, 2025Approved by the Senate committee
3. March 11, 2025Passed the Senate, 47–0
4. March 12, 2025Arrived in the House
5. March 13, 2025House subcommittee named: Vondran, Gjerde, Wills and J
6. March 20, 2025Subcommittee recommended passing it
7. March 25, 2025Approved by the House committee
8. March 25, 2025Committee vote: 22–1
9. April 21, 2025Passed the House, 90–1
10. May 6, 2025Sent to the Governor
11. May 6, 2025Signed into law