This bill amends the Revised Judicature Act of 1961 by adding a new section, 2980, which establishes liability for individuals who cause injury to service animals. Under this new provision, a person is liable to the owner or handler of a service animal for damages resulting from injuries, including death, caused by the person or their animal. The bill outlines specific types of damages that may be awarded, including economic damages related to the value of the service animal, associated equipment, care costs, retraining or replacement costs, as well as punitive damages for intentional or reckless conduct.

Additionally, the bill allows for the recovery of attorney fees and actual costs incurred in pursuing damages. It clarifies that liability applies regardless of whether the conduct was intentional, reckless, or negligent, and it does not affect any other legal remedies available to service animal owners or handlers. The definition of "service animal" is aligned with existing law as defined in the Michigan penal code.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 600.101, 600.9947