This bill amends Section 216C.11 of the Iowa Code to expand the rights of individuals with disabilities regarding access to service animals and service-animal-in-training. It clarifies that these individuals have the right to be accompanied by their service animals in any location where such animals are permitted by law, in addition to the previously specified places such as public buildings, transportation, and accommodations. The bill also maintains that individuals are responsible for any damage caused by their service animals.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the penalties for those who deny or interfere with the rights of individuals accompanied by service animals, categorizing such actions as a simple misdemeanor. This change aims to strengthen the legal protections for persons with disabilities and ensure their access to necessary support animals in a broader range of settings.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 216C.11