HI HR183

Requests the Department of Human Services, in consultation with the Hawaii Civil Rights Commission and Disability and Communication Access Board, to examine the implementation of Act 217, which established civil penalties for knowingly misrepresenting animals as service animals.

Directs the department to report on enforcement methods for the misrepresentation prohibition, whether administrative rules are needed, oversight mechanisms for service animals, and whether additional legislation is necessary.

Requires the department to issue guidance on service animal misrepresentation for use by law enforcement and the business community.

Directs the department to develop a public outreach campaign to educate places of accommodations and the public about legitimate service animals and their importance to their owners.

Requires submission of findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than twenty days prior to the 2020 regular session convening.