HB 2588 Summary

• Amends Arizona Revised Statutes section 11-1024 to prohibit fraudulent misrepresentation of animals as service animals or service animals in training to public place operators.

• Establishes a civil penalty of up to $250 per violation for fraudulently misrepresenting an animal as a service animal, enforced by a court or duly appointed hearing officer.

• Defines "service animal" as dogs or miniature horses individually trained or in training to perform work or tasks for individuals with disabilities; excludes other animal species regardless of training status.

• Clarifies that emotional support, comfort, or companionship alone do not constitute service animal work or tasks, and that crime deterrence effects do not qualify as valid service animal functions.

• Maintains existing provisions protecting individuals with disabilities' rights to use legitimate service animals in public places while allowing exclusions based on health threats, fundamental alterations, undue burden, lack of control, or inadequate housebreaking.