Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to modify regulations concerning conservation officers in Minnesota specifically related to allowing dogs to accompany them during patrols.

Main Provisions

• Security Barrier Exemption: The bill clarifies that marked conservation officer patrol vehicles are not required to have security barriers.
• Dogs on Patrol:
  • Conservation officers can have dogs accompany them in patrol vehicles if certain conditions are met.
  • The dog must belong to a breed classified by the American Kennel Club as a sporting breed.
  • The dog must be up-to-date with all required vaccinations and not be sick.
  • The dog must have no history of seriously injuring anyone.
  • The conservation officer must accept personal responsibility and liability for any potential harm or damage the dog might cause.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• This bill amends current statutes by allowing greater flexibility for conservation officers regarding patrol vehicle configurations and their use of dogs while on duty, under certain conditions that were not previously specified in law.

Relevant Terms

• Conservation officers
• Patrol vehicles
• Security barrier
• American Kennel Club
• Sporting group
• Liability and responsibility