(A) For purposes of this section, "patrol canine teams" refers to a certified officer and a specific patrol canine controlled by the handler working together in the performance of law enforcement or correctional duties. "Patrol canine teams" does not refer to canines used exclusively for tracking or specific detection.

(B) The South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy shall verify that patrol canine teams have been certified by a nationally recognized police dog association or similar organization.

(C) No law enforcement agency may utilize patrol canine teams after July 1, 2014, unless the patrol canine teams have met all certification requirements.