Establishes the Massachusetts veterans service dog program to provide service dogs to eligible veterans.

The bill establishes the Massachusetts veterans service dog program to provide service dogs to eligible veterans. The executive office of veterans’ services will administer the program, including assessing veteran needs, partnering with accredited organizations for dog procurement and training, and matching dogs with veterans. The program will be funded by a dedicated fund, including appropriations, gifts, grants, donations, and interest earned. Eligible veterans must be commonwealth residents with a documented disability and a recommendation from a healthcare professional.

Establishes the Massachusetts veterans service dog program to provide service dogs to eligible veterans.

The bill establishes the Massachusetts veterans service dog program to provide service dogs to eligible veterans. The executive office of veterans’ services will administer the program, including assessing veteran needs, partnering with accredited organizations for dog procurement and training, and matching dogs with veterans. The program will be funded by a dedicated fund, including appropriations, gifts, grants, donations, and interest earned. Eligible veterans must be commonwealth residents with a documented disability and a recommendation from a healthcare professional.