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Bill

Bill

A 1128

Establishes March 13 as a day of commemoration to be known as "K9 Veterans Day"

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Marianne Buttenschon and 4 co-sponsors

Designates March 13 as K9 Veterans Day to honor working dogs and enable statewide observances by government entities, schools, and communities.

REFERRED TO GOVERNMENTAL OPERATIONS
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · A 1128

Summary of Bill A 1128

Overview

Bill A 1128 would designate March 13 as a day of commemoration to be known as “K9 Veterans Day.” The measure seeks statewide recognition of the service and sacrifices of K9 unit veterans. The bill was introduced on January 9, 2025 and has been referred to the Committee on Governmental Operations for review.

Purpose and intent

  • Create an annual statewide observance named “K9 Veterans Day” on March 13.
  • Honor the contributions of military and law enforcement/working dogs (K9s) and acknowledge their service alongside human veterans.

Key provisions (as introduced)

  • Establishment of March 13 as a day of commemoration to be publicly recognized as “K9 Veterans Day.”
  • Observance to be recognized within the state, with potential observances, ceremonies, or educational activities carried out by public entities or communities at their discretion (specific activities would be outlined in future regulatory or program directives if enacted).

Note: The text provided does not include detailed requirements for how observances must be conducted or funded. If enacted, such details may be clarified in subsequent amendments or guidance.

Who would be affected

  • State and local government entities responsible for recognizing or organizing commemorative observances.
  • Public schools, veterans groups, law enforcement and canine units, and organizations involved in K9 services.
  • The general public may engage in or participate in observances and educational activities related to K9 veterans.

Procedural status and timeline

  • Introduced: January 9, 2025.
  • Referred to the Committee on Governmental Operations on January 9, 2025 (listed twice in the record, indicating referral actions on that date).
  • The bill’s progress depends on committee review, potential amendments, and eventual floor consideration.

Sponsors

  • Primary: Angelo Santabarbara
  • Co-sponsors: Brian Manktelow, William Colton, Joe DeStefano, Marianne Buttenschon

Related legislation (prior-session)

  • A 2232, A 8402, A 5019, A 1352, A 2496, A 1168
  • These related bills indicate prior-interest in designating a K9-related commemorative day and may inform debates or amendments in the current measure.

Potential impact

  • Official statewide recognition of K9 veterans with a designated commemorative day.
  • Possible ceremonial or educational activities in communities, schools, and government facilities.
  • Fiscal impact is not specified in the provided materials; any costs or funding requirements would become clearer with committee analysis and potential amendments.

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

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