The proposed bill, General Assembly Proposed Bill No. 166, aims to amend the general statutes to address and prevent fraud and abuse related to the special protections granted to service animals and their owners. The bill specifically seeks to establish penalties for individuals who misrepresent animals that are not trained as service animals, thereby reinforcing the integrity of the service animal designation.

The intent of this legislation is to safeguard the rights and privileges associated with legitimate service animals, ensuring that only properly trained animals receive the benefits intended for them. By implementing these measures, the bill aims to deter fraudulent claims and protect the interests of individuals who rely on service animals for assistance.