H.R.3144 - Honoring our K9 Heroes Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.3144, the "Honoring our K9 Heroes Act," proposes to amend the Homeland Security Act of 2002. It aims to establish a grant program to increase access to medical care for retired Federal working dogs. The bill authorizes appropriations of $1,000,000 for each fiscal year from 2026 through 2030 for this purpose.
Expected Effects
The bill's enactment would lead to the creation of a grant program within the Department of Homeland Security. This program would provide financial assistance to eligible entities that offer medical care to retired Federal working dogs. Ultimately, this would improve the health and well-being of these animals.
Potential Benefits
- Improved medical care for retired Federal working dogs.
- Financial support for organizations providing assistance to these animals.
- Recognition of the service and sacrifice of working dogs.
- Potential for increased adoption rates of retired working dogs due to reduced financial burden on handlers.
- Enhanced public image of Federal law enforcement and military agencies.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for bureaucratic inefficiencies in the grant application and distribution process.
- Limited scope, focusing solely on medical care for retired Federal working dogs, potentially neglecting other animal welfare issues.
- The authorized funding may be insufficient to meet the needs of all eligible dogs and organizations.
- Possible challenges in verifying the eligibility of recipient organizations and ensuring proper use of funds.
- Opportunity cost, as the allocated funds could be used for other homeland security priorities.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the General Welfare Clause of the Constitution (Preamble), as it aims to promote the well-being of animals that have served the public interest. Congress's power to appropriate funds for specific purposes is established in Article I, Section 8, Clause 1. The establishment of a grant program falls within the scope of Congress's legislative authority.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).