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House hearing spotlights debate over statewide standards for police 'comfort' dogs
Summary
Sponsors and handlers testified for HB 12 81, which would establish minimum training and certification standards for agency‑owned comfort dogs used by police and other emergency services; supporters said standards ensure consistent public-safety response while opponents urged narrower, nonprescriptive rules to avoid sidelining capable dogs.
Representative John Morton introduced HB 12 81 on behalf of sponsors seeking statewide standards for "facility comfort dogs," agency‑owned animals that provide emotional support and crisis response. Morton said the bill would ensure agency dogs meet a common training threshold while making explicit that comfort dogs are not service animals protected by the Americans with Disabilities Act. "Facility comfort dogs are not considered service dogs," he said, distinguishing the bill’s focus from privately owned therapy or emotional‑support animals.
Laura Barker, founder of…
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