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

HB 1719 requires that all peace officers' basic law enforcement training include at least four hours of instruction on officer-canine encounters and canine behaviors. This training must cover specific topics such as understanding canine behavior, handling unplanned encounters, using humane methods, relevant state canine laws, and nonlethal defense techniques. The bill applies to every peace officer's basic training requirement, meaning it will be mandated for new officers as part of their initial certification process. The bill is currently pending in the legislature after being prefaced and read in the House.