This bill amends the existing law regarding the offense of intentional misrepresentation of an animal as a service animal or service-animal-in-training. The current law requires three elements to be established for a person to be charged with this offense: (1) the intentional misrepresentation of an animal as a service animal to obtain rights or privileges, (2) prior warning about the illegality of such misrepresentation, and (3) knowledge that the animal is not a service animal. The bill proposes to remove the second and third elements, simplifying the criteria for prosecution.

As a result of these changes, a person can be charged with the offense of intentional misrepresentation of an animal as a service animal or service-animal-in-training based solely on the first element. The bill maintains that this offense is classified as a simple misdemeanor, which carries a penalty of up to 30 days of confinement and a fine ranging from $105 to $855.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 216C.11