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Bill

SB 300

Budget Bill

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Mike Woelfel

SB 300 protects service dog handlers from discrimination, ensures access rights, and imposes penalties for harming service dogs, promoting safety and inclusion.

Referred to Rules on 3rd reading
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Bill Summary · SB 300

Summary of SB 300: Providing Protections for Service Dogs and Handlers

Bill Information:
- Bill Number: SB 300
- Title: Providing protections for service dogs and handlers
- Status: Chapter Number Assigned
- Introduced: December 17, 2024
- Classification: Bill
- Subject Areas: Crimes, Discrimination and Human Rights, Safety (also related to Health)

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of SB 300 is to enhance the legal protections afforded to service dogs and their handlers. This legislation aims to ensure that individuals who rely on service dogs for assistance are not subjected to discrimination or harm, thereby promoting their rights and safety in public spaces.

Key Provisions

SB 300 includes several important provisions designed to protect service dogs and their handlers:

  1. Definition of Service Dogs:

    • The bill clarifies the definition of service dogs, specifying the types of tasks they are trained to perform for individuals with disabilities.

  2. Prohibition of Discrimination:

    • It prohibits discrimination against service dog handlers in various settings, including public accommodations, housing, and employment.

  3. Penalties for Harm:

    • The bill establishes penalties for individuals who intentionally harm or interfere with service dogs, ensuring that such actions are treated as serious offenses.

  4. Access Rights:

    • It reinforces the access rights of service dogs in public places, ensuring that handlers can bring their service animals into establishments where they are typically allowed.

  5. Training Standards:

    • The legislation may include provisions for the certification and training standards of service dogs to ensure they meet specific criteria.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Service Dog Handlers: Individuals with disabilities who rely on service dogs for assistance will benefit directly from the protections and rights established by this bill.
  • Businesses and Public Entities: Establishments that serve the public will need to comply with the new regulations regarding service dog access and handler rights.
  • Law Enforcement and Legal Entities: The bill will impact how law enforcement and legal systems address cases involving service dogs and their handlers.

Procedural Timeline

  • Introduced: December 17, 2024
  • Legislative Actions:
    • February 11, 2025: Bill introduced and first reading in the Senate.
    • February 22 - March 1, 2025: The bill underwent hearings and committee reviews in the Senate.
    • March 5, 2025: Passed the Senate and was transmitted to the House.
    • March 19 - April 29, 2025: The House conducted hearings and committee actions, ultimately passing the bill.
    • May 9, 2025: Signed by the Governor.
    • May 13, 2025: Chapter number assigned.

Conclusion

SB 300 represents a significant step forward in protecting the rights of service dog handlers and ensuring that service dogs are treated with the respect and legal protections they deserve. By prohibiting discrimination and establishing penalties for harm, the bill aims to create a safer and more inclusive environment for individuals who rely on these vital companions.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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