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HB 563

Criminal Law - Emergency Response Animal - Prohibited Actions Against

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Lauren Arikan and 12 co-sponsors

HB 563 criminalizes harming emergency response animals deployed by law enforcement and rescue agencies, establishing penalties to protect dogs and other animals assisting official operations.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 402
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Bill Summary · HB 563

Legislative bill overview

HB 563 creates criminal penalties for actions taken against emergency response animals (such as police dogs, search and rescue dogs, and other animals deployed in official emergency situations). The bill prohibits interference with, injury to, or killing of these animals during their deployment and establishes specific criminal consequences for violations.

Why is this important

Emergency response animals play critical roles in public safety operations, including tracking suspects, locating missing persons, and detecting explosives or contraband. Without legal protections, these animals—and the officers handling them—face increased risk. This legislation provides a legal deterrent and establishes accountability for harming animals that directly support law enforcement and rescue operations.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope definition: Questions about which animals qualify as "emergency response animals" and whether the protections extend broadly enough to cover all relevant situations
  • Sentencing severity: Debate over whether the prescribed penalties are proportionate compared to other animal cruelty laws or other criminal offenses
  • Self-defense implications: Concern about whether people defending themselves against police dogs could face criminal charges, and how "prohibited actions" interacts with self-defense rights

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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