CT SB00971

Expands rights to use assistance dogs in public accommodations and dwellings to include persons using assistance dogs for physician-documented health conditions (such as allergen detection or seizure alert), in addition to existing protections for blind, deaf, and mobility impaired persons.

Defines "assistance dog" to include dogs trained by guide dog or assistance dog organizations meeting professional association criteria, as well as volunteer-raised dogs identified by tags, tattoos, bandanas, coats, or leashes.

Permits persons with assistance dogs to accompany their dogs on public transportation and in public accommodations at no extra charge, provided the dog wears a harness or orange-colored leash and collar and remains in the owner's direct custody.

Allows persons with assistance dogs to visit public accommodations, resorts, amusements, and dwellings as guests without being charged additional fees not applicable to other guests, though dog owners remain liable for any damage caused by their dogs.

Makes it a Class C misdemeanor to deny rights to persons with assistance dogs who comply with the applicable provisions, effective October 1, 2011.