[§264-19.1]  Microchip scanning of deceased animals on roadways.  (a)  The department of transportation shall:

     (1)  Scan any cat or dog carcass found on a state roadway for a microchip;

     (2)  Record any microchip number or other identifying information and a basic description of the animal, if discernible;

     (3)  Notify the appropriate county animal services contractor or animal control agency within forty-eight hours of discovery; and

     (4)  When feasible, make reasonable efforts to contact the registered owner of a deceased animal if microchip information is obtained.

     (b)  The department of transportation may coordinate with the counties to share microchip scanner resources or protocols as needed. [L 2025, c 81, §3]