Changes to Existing Law
SB82 — Prohibit the misrepresentation of an animal as a service animal and to provide a penalty therefor.
1 section modified+923-0
View:
§ 22-35
New Section+923
NEW SECTION added to Chapter 22-35
An individual may not, directly or indirectly through statements or conduct, intentionally misrepresent an animal in that individual's possession as a service animal in any place of public accommodation to obtain any rights or privileges available to an individual who qualifies for a service animal under state or federal law, knowing that the individual is not entitled to those rights or privileges. A violation of this section is a Class misdemeanor. For purposes of this section, "service animal" means a dog that is trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability, as set forth in C.F.R. § 36.104 (January 1, 2026), provided the work or tasks performed by the dog are directly related to the individual's disability. The crime deterrent effects of a dog's presence and the provision of emotional support, well-being, comfort, or companionship do not constitute work or tasks. 16