Full and equal access to all housing accommodations for any person training a dog to be a service animal requirement
Impact
The proposed bill represents a significant shift in state law regarding housing accessibility for service animal trainees. By ensuring that provisions in deeds, rental agreements, or local ordinances that restrict the right to possess a service dog trainee are deemed void and unenforceable, the bill aims to eliminate barriers that may prevent individuals from obtaining necessary training for service animals. This could lead to increased opportunities for individuals with disabilities to access housing without facing discrimination or additional fees associated with their training dogs.
Summary
Senate File 4831 (SF4831) aims to enhance the rights of individuals training dogs to be service animals by ensuring they have full and equal access to all housing accommodations. This legislation specifically amends Minnesota Statutes to clarify that individuals in training cannot be charged extra for their service dog trainees, aligning with federal definitions of service animals. Additionally, those training such animals are entitled to legal recourse should their access be denied, including the right to recover attorney fees if they prevail in enforcement of their rights.
Contention
One notable point of contention surrounding SF4831 is the potential impact on property owners and housing associations, which may express concerns over liability and property damage associated with service animals. Critics might argue that the bill doesn't adequately balance the rights of individuals training service dogs with the obligations of property owners to maintain their premises. Additionally, there may be apprehension regarding the enforcement of access rights and the degree of liability imposed on trainers should their service animals cause damage.
A bill for an act relating to assistance animals and service animals, including reasonable accommodations for housing and requirements for findings of disabilities. Effective date: 07/01/2024.
Further providing for definitions; establishing the trained service animal card; providing for the documentation of service dogs and for admittance of registered service animal to public accommodations; establishing a trained service animal card database; providing for immunity from liability; and making editorial changes.