Bill to criminalize fake service animals advances in Oklahoma Senate

House Bill 1178, which would criminalize the misrepresentation of a service animal, is one step closer to the governor’s desk.

Under the Americans with Disabilities Act, service animals are not required to wear a vest, badge or carry a license. Lawmakers say that has contributed to ongoing issues.

The goal of the bill, lawmakers say, is to protect certified service animals and their handlers. They argue that people misrepresenting their pets as service animals has become too common.

“Is there a licensing or certificate? Yes, there is, it’s required by law that we have that,” said Lee Parker with Canine Companions. “No, at this time it is not. My dog is badged, my dog is vested, my dog has proof that he is a certified service dog.”

State lawmakers backing the bill say they’ve heard from people across Oklahoma that untrained animals being presented as service dogs are disrupting restaurants, businesses and other public spaces.

House Bill 1178 would make it a misdemeanor to falsely claim an animal is a service animal, but lawmakers say the goal is deterrence, not increasing citations.

As of 2020, the ADA only recognizes dogs, and in some cases, miniature horses, as service animals.

The legislation passed out of the Senate Public Safety Committee on Tuesday with only two “no” votes. It now heads to the full Senate for consideration.

RELATED COVERAGE:

1. New bill could criminalize misrepresentation of service animals in Oklahoma
2. ADA Service Animal Guidelines: Rules, rights, and requirements explained