Special to Iredell Free News

The U.S. House of Representatives has passed H.R.807, the Working Dog Commemorative Coin Act.

This legislation, first introduced by Rep. Patrick McHenry (NC-10) in 2023, honors the working dogs who protect Americans at home and abroad and the extraordinary people who benefit from their service.

H.R. 807 directs the U.S. Treasury to mint and issue coins in commemoration of the service that these dogs provide to society. All sales of coins shall include a surcharge, which shall be paid to America’s VetDogs for general expenses associated with the fulfillment of its mission.

“[Working dogs] are so embedded in our daily lives here on Capitol Hill, we often pass them by without noticing,” McHenry said. “But since I introduced this bill in the last Congress, it is as if I see working dogs everywhere I go. I’m thankful to have gained this new appreciation.

“This is more than just a coin bill, it’s a bill about improving the quality of life for our wounded veterans and first responders—something we all can get behind.”

Working Dog Commemorative Coin Act

This bill directs the Department of the Treasury to mint and issue 50,000 $5 gold coins, 500,000 $1 silver coins, and 750,000 half-dollar clad coins in commemoration of the service that working dogs provide to society. The designs of the coins minted under this bill shall be emblematic of the contributions of working dogs to society, including in detection, military service, therapy, and assistance.

Treasury may issue coins only during the one-year period beginning on January 1, 2025.

All sales of coins shall include a surcharge, which shall be paid to America’s VetDogs for general expenses associated with the fulfillment of its mission.