H.B. 322 Summary

• Amends the definition of "service dog" to require written certification from a doctor that the dog owner has a disability, including anxiety or other emotional disorders, rather than just stating the person "has" a disability.

• Adds a new definition of "emotional support animal" as any animal determined by a licensed medical professional to provide therapeutic benefit for an individual with a disability, including anxiety or emotional disorders, with written certification required.

• Grants persons with disabilities the right to be accompanied by an emotional support animal in public places, common carriers, hotels, and other public accommodations without paying extra charges, equivalent to rights previously granted only to service dogs.

• Specifies that emotional support animals and service dogs are not considered dangerous merely because unmuzzled, and owners remain liable for any damage caused by these animals.

• Takes effect upon approval, and does not affect rights, duties, or proceedings that occurred before the effective date.