Congresswoman Nancy Mace announced on Apr. 3 the introduction of the Federal Enhancement for Tactical Canine Help (FETCH) Act of 2026, a bill designed to clarify and expand how law enforcement agencies can use federal grant funding to support K-9 units.
The FETCH Act aims to address uncertainty faced by police departments regarding which K-9-related expenses qualify for federal support. The legislation proposes that costs associated with acquiring, training, equipping, and caring for police dogs will be eligible under the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant 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.”
If enacted, Byrne JAG funds could be used for acquiring police dogs; training related to detection and obedience; veterinary care; equipment such as protective vests; housing needs including kennels or stipends; insurance coverage; routine care; and retirement-related costs like medical treatment or adoption by handlers.
Mace also said: “From tracking down dangerous criminals to detecting deadly substances, K-9 units are vital partners in law enforcement. This bill backs the blue and ensures officers have every tool they need to do their jobs safely and effectively.”
Nancy Mace is currently serving in the U.S. Congress representing South Carolina’s 1st district after replacing Joe Cunningham in 2021 according to official records. She has served as a member of Congress since 2021 following her tenure in the South Carolina House of Representatives from 2018 to 2020 as reported by Ballotpedia. Born at Fort Bragg in North Carolina in 1977, Mace is now based in Charleston according to her congressional biography, having graduated from The Citadel with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1999 as noted by The Citadel.
Observers will watch whether this legislative effort results in increased certainty around funding for police canine programs across U.S. law enforcement agencies.
