Rep. Nancy Mace Introduces Bill To Back The Blue, Expand K-9 Funding Support
Bill ensures law enforcement can use federal grants to train, equip, and care for police dogs from day one through retirement
WASHINGTON, D.C. (Apr. 3, 2026) — Today, Congresswoman Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) introduced the Federal Enhancement for Tactical Canine Help (FETCH) Act of 2026, legislation to expand and reinforce how law enforcement agencies can use existing federal grant funding to support K-9 units.
Police K-9s are on the front lines keeping communities safe, detecting drugs and explosives, tracking suspects, and protecting officers in dangerous situations. But under current law, departments are left navigating uncertainty over what costs qualify for federal support. The FETCH Act cuts through the red tape and ensures K-9 related expenses can be covered under the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (Byrne JAG) Program.
“Police K-9 units are one of the most effective tools in law enforcement and keeping our communities safe,” said Congresswoman Mace. “These dogs save lives, stop crime, and protect the men and women in uniform who put themselves in harm’s way every day. Our bill ensures law enforcement can fully leverage existing resources to train, equip, and care for these K-9 partners from their first day on the job through retirement.”
The FETCH Act allows Byrne JAG funding to cover:
- Acquiring police dogs
- Training for law enforcement duties, including detection and obedience
- Veterinary care, medications, and dietary needs
- Equipment and supplies like protective vests, collars, and first aid kits
- Housing, including kennels and home-care stipends for handlers
- Insurance and liability coverage
- Routine care to keep K-9s mission-ready
- Retirement care, including treatment of service-related conditions and adoption by handlers
By expanding and reinforcing allowable uses of existing grant funding, the FETCH Act gives law enforcement the certainty they need to invest in K-9 programs and keep communities safe.
“From tracking down dangerous criminals to detecting deadly substances, K-9 units are vital partners in law enforcement,” Mace added. “This bill backs the blue and ensures officers have every tool they need to do their jobs safely and effectively.”
SEE BILL TEXT HERE:
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