House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda

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House of Representatives
Session of 2013 - 2014 Regular Session

MEMORANDUM

Posted:	August 13, 2014 01:40 PM
From:	Representative Kevin J. Schreiber
To:	All House members
Subject:	Law Enforcement Training Regarding the Use of Nonlethal Force Against Pets

Recently, many news outlets have reported that law enforcement have used lethal force when approached by aggressive animals. Current law states that every law enforcement officer has the legal right and duty to protect himself or herself and the individuals present if anyone encounters an animal acting aggressively. However, understanding canine behaviors, such as the difference between indications of imminent danger of attack and benign behaviors commonly exhibited by dogs, is essential for law enforcement to adequately protect themselves, their colleagues, and the general public. Therefore, in the very near future, I plan to introduce a resolution directing the Joint State Government Commission to establish an advisory committee to assist in the study of whether or not the Pennsylvania State Police and other law enforcement agencies would benefit from training regarding the use nonlethal force against pets, particularly dogs. Specifically, this proposal would determine if implementing policies and procedures pertaining to nonlethal force is appropriate. Further, my proposal would require the Joint State Government Commission to establish the advisory committee within 60 days of adoption of this proposal, and the committee would consist of approximately 25 members, including public officials and experts on the issue of law enforcement training relating to the use of nonlethal force against dogs. Please join me in co-sponsoring this important legislation.

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