AN ACT relating to animal control officers.
What changed between versions
Training content was updated to specifically include child abuse and neglect recognition, as well as the statistical correlation between animal abuse and future interpersonal violence.
New subsections were added to clarify that officers only need to make reports and are not required to conduct independent investigations beyond their animal control authority.
New provisions were added to grant immunity from civil liability for animal control officers and their employers when acting in good faith to report suspected abuse.
A new provision allows local governments to opt out of the training requirements by providing written notice to the board by a specific deadline.
The bill title was updated from '26 RS BR 1416' to '26 RS HB 246/GA' to reflect its status as a House Bill.