Wisconsin Senate Bill SB239

Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/9/25
• Refer: 5/9/25
• Report Pass: 1/13/26
• Failed: 3/23/26

Caption

Prohibiting hotels, inns, and motels from discriminating against dog handlers who are accompanied by search and rescue dogs.

Impact

If enacted, SB239 would modify existing statutes to explicitly prohibit lodging establishments from refusing service, charging higher fees, or engaging in discriminatory practices against dog handlers accompanied by search and rescue dogs. Additionally, accommodations must be made to ensure that such dogs are allowed to accompany their handlers to all public areas within the establishments. The bill emphasizes that the search and rescue dogs must wear proper identification like a harness or cape and remain leashed while on the premises.

Summary

Senate Bill 239 aims to ensure that dog handlers accompanied by search and rescue dogs are not discriminated against in public accommodations such as hotels, inns, and motels. The bill seeks to extend the protections currently afforded to individuals with disabilities accompanied by service animals to those who handle search and rescue dogs. This legislation focuses on allowing handlers to have the full and equal enjoyment of lodging accommodations without facing restrictions or additional charges due to their service animal's presence.

Contention

One potential point of contention around SB239 is the responsibility placed on the dog handler for any damages caused by their search and rescue dog while on the premises of a hotel, inn, or motel. Although this clarifies liability, it might raise concerns among dog handlers regarding the implications of financial responsibility if their dog causes damage. Furthermore, the bill allows for the exclusion of a search and rescue dog if its presence would fundamentally alter the nature of accommodations or jeopardize safety, which could lead to interpretation and application challenges in practice.