DEFINITIONS
“Service dog” means a dog which has been or is being specially trained to the requirements of a person with a disability.
Accommodation Law
Any blind, partially blind, deaf, hearing impaired person or other person with a disability who is a passenger on any common carrier, airplane, motor vehicle, railroad train, motor bus, boat or any other public conveyance operating within the state may have a service dog with him or her.
Any person violating this section is subject to a fine not to exceed $750.00.
Harassment of/Interference with Service Dogs
Any person whoknowingly, willfully and without lawful cause or justification inflicts, or permits or directs any animal under his or her control or ownership to inflict, serious bodily harm, permanent disability or death upon any service dog is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment for not more than 6 months, a fine of not more than $750.00, or both.
Must also pay restitution, which includes:
- related veterinary or medical bills
- the cost of replacing the service dog or retraining an injured service dog
- any other expense reasonably incurred as a result of the offense
Driving Law
The driver of a vehicle approaching a blind, partially blind, deaf or hearing impaired pedestrian using a guide dog shall take all necessary precautions to avoid injury to the pedestrian.
Any driver failing to take these precautions is liable in damages for any injury caused the pedestrian.