This bill amends Oklahoma law regarding service animals and emotional support animals, specifically addressing definitions and requirements for written notices. It clarifies that a "service animal" is defined as a dog trained to perform specific tasks for individuals with disabilities, while "emotional support animals" do not have such training and do not accompany their owners at all times. The bill mandates that sellers or providers of emotional support animals must provide written notice to buyers, stating that these animals do not qualify as service animals and do not carry the same rights and privileges. Additionally, those providing verification of a disability-related need for an emotional support animal must also issue similar written notifications.

The legislation introduces fines for individuals or businesses that fail to comply with these notice requirements, with penalties ranging from $100 to $250 for first violations and $500 for subsequent violations. It also emphasizes that misrepresenting an emotional support animal as a service animal is a violation of Oklahoma law. Furthermore, the bill ensures that nothing within it precludes other civil remedies available for misrepresentation of service animals. The effective date for this act is set for November 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 4-801