Legislature passes bill to allow emergency services for injured police dogs

May 6, 2025 – MONTGOMERY, AL – The Alabama Senate passed legislation that would authorize EMS to transport a police canine officer who is wounded or injured in the line of duty.

House Bill 366 (HB366) was sponsored by State Representative Pete Riehm (R-Dothan). It was carried in the Senate by Senator Andrew Jones (R-Centre).

"This bill allows an injured police dog to be transported by EMS," explained Jones.

According to the synopsis, "Relating to police dogs; to authorize emergency medical services personnel to provide emergency medical care to injured police dogs and transport them to a veterinary clinic or veterinary hospital; and to provide immunity from liability arising from providing such medical care."

This act will be known as the Lakyn Canine Act.

The bill defines police dog as "Any dog with specialized training or in the process of specialized training which is used by and under the control of a federal, state, or local peace officer, Class One Railroad Officer or special agent, firefighter, or any member of the military in the performance of his or her duties."

"Emergency medical services personnel who act in good faith to provide emergency medical care to a police dog pursuant to subdivision (1) are immune from criminal or civil liability as it relates to any injury or harm caused to the injured police dog. Emergency medical services personnel are also immune from criminal or civil liability for refusing to treat or transport an injured police dog."

HB366 passed the Senate. It has already passed the House and now goes to the Governor's office for her consideration.