SF1317

The bill S.F. No. 1317 proposes changes to existing laws concerning housing accommodations for persons with disabilities who use service dogs in Minnesota. Specifically, it aims to modify definitions and add provisions related to service dogs in training.

Key aspects of the proposed bill include: 1. Expanding Definitions: It clarifies what constitutes a homeowners association and housing accommodations within the context of this law. 2. Service Dogs in Training: The bill introduces provisions for service dogs in training, defining them as dogs under the supervision of accredited organizations like Assistance Dogs International or the International Guide Dog Federation. 3. Housing Rights for Trainers: Individuals actively training service dogs would be allowed access to all housing accommodations without having to pay extra fees, although they would be responsible for any damages caused by the dogs. 4. Certification Requirements: Landlords or homeowners associations could request written certification from the training organization to verify the status of the service dog in training. Accommodations for these dogs would end once their training is completed.

In essence, the bill seeks to ensure that individuals training service dogs have the same rights to housing as those with fully trained service dogs, and puts in place mechanisms to protect property owners and associations.