Metro East Sun

Retired police K9s in Illinois will soon have access to additional veterinary support following the signing of a new law sponsored by Senator Erica Harriss (56th-Glen Carbon). The legislation, House Bill 3140, establishes the Care for Retired Police Dogs Grant Program. This program provides up to $1,500 annually to reimburse handlers or adoptive families for veterinary expenses. Eligibility requires that a K9 must have served at least five years, or three years if injured while on duty.

“Our police K9s give everything they have to keep our communities safe,” said Senator Harriss. “After years of dangerous and demanding work, many face costly health challenges. This law makes sure they’re cared for in retirement, just as they cared for us.”

Senator Harriss added, “Most retired K9s are adopted by their handlers, who already share a deep bond with them. By helping cover the cost of veterinary care, this program not only eases the burden on families but also honors these heroes who dedicated their lives to protecting Illinois communities.”

The grant program is funded through sales of Illinois’ new K-9 Memorial License Plate and will not require taxpayer dollars. The initiative will begin only if at least 2,000 license plate requests are received by January 2028.

Harriss is a Republican who was elected to the Illinois State Senate in 2023 and represents the state's 56th Senate District, succeeding Kris Tharp.