AB 1865 Summary

• Removes the requirement that guide, signal, or service dogs be "in discharge of its duties" when injured or killed to qualify as a crime, expanding protection to dogs enrolled in training programs located in California.

• Expands criminal penalties: infraction for failure to exercise ordinary care (up to $250 fine) and misdemeanor for reckless disregard (up to 1 year jail and $2,500-$5,000 fine); intentional injury remains a misdemeanor (up to 1 year jail and up to $10,000 fine).

• Requires defendants convicted of these crimes to make restitution for veterinary bills, replacement costs, medical expenses, and lost wages or income of the disabled person, with courts considering these costs before imposing fines.

• Authorizes disabled persons to apply for compensation from the California Victim Compensation Board for medical expenses and lost wages/income up to $10,000.

• Creates appropriation through expanded use of the continuously appropriated Restitution Fund and includes operative provisions coordinating with Senate Bill 1494, Assembly Bills 900, 1939, and Senate Bill 1005.