Senate Bill 1223 won full Senate approval on Monday making way to address the issue of fake service animals. Senator David Bullard, who authored the bill, says SB 1223 would prohibit anyone without a disability or who is not trained to assist those with disabilities from fraudulently representing a pet as a service animal.
Bullard contends the practice has become a problem.
“Sadly, there are some in our society who will take advantage of the benefits of a service animal and impersonate their need for one, thereby causing harm to those who have a legitimate need of such an animal. We’ve seen it in various scenarios, and business owners are begging for help,” Bullard said. “Now, we are facing the fraudulent use of these animals, causing hardships on kids, veterans, and many others who have a real need for them. My bill will make this disgusting activity a crime. We will not stand for people impersonating those who are disabled, all to save money or bring their favorite pet to a store that does not allow it.”
SB 1223 makes the practice a misdemeanor with a fine of $500. It also allows any public accommodation to post signage stating it is a crime to misrepresent a service animal.
The bill heads to the House of Representatives, where Representative Dustin Roberts will manage the measure.
