Purpose of the Bill

The purpose of this bill is to update housing accommodation laws related to service dogs in order to improve access for individuals with disabilities. It specifically focuses on allowing service dogs that are still in training to have access to housing.

Main Provisions

• Definition Updates: The bill updates the definition of "homeowners association" and "housing accommodations" to ensure clarity in the application of housing laws.

  • Homeowners associations include all types of residential communities, whether subject to specific chapters or not.
  • Housing accommodations refer to any property used or intended as living space, excluding single-family homes with only one rented room.

• Service Dogs in Training: This bill introduces provisions for service dogs that are actively being trained.

  • It defines a "service dog in training" as one being trained under an accredited organization, such as Assistance Dogs International or the International Guide Dog Federation.
  • Individuals training these dogs are granted full access to housing accommodations consistent with those allowed for officially recognized service dogs.
  • Trainers are not required to pay extra fees for these dogs but must assume liability for any damages caused by them.

• Certification Requirement: Landlords or homeowners associations may request written certification from the training organization to verify the status of the training.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• The bill adds a new subdivision specifically addressing service dogs in training, providing them with similar rights as fully trained service dogs in housing situations.
• It allows trainers of service dogs in training to have housing access without additional charges, something not explicitly covered in previous laws.

Relevant Terms

service dog, service dog in training, housing accommodations, homeowners association, disabilities, Assistance Dogs International, International Guide Dog Federation, accreditation, liability, certification.