AL SB263

Amends Section 13A-11-231 of the Alabama Code to add therapy dogs to the definition of service dogs protected under criminal harassment and injury laws.

Defines "therapy dog" as a trained emotional support dog tested and registered by a nonprofit national therapy dog organization, including dogs that visit libraries, nursing homes, hospitals, schools, hospices, courthouses, and disaster areas to provide emotional support.

Extends criminal penalties for knowingly harassing or injuring a dog to now include registered therapy dogs and their handlers while performing official duties.

Specifies that a registered therapy dog handler must be a member in good standing of a national therapy dog organization with authorized credentials.

Becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and gubernatorial approval.