HB 5281 Summary

• Establishes the "Assistance Animal Basic Obedience Training and Instruction Act" requiring individuals who provide basic obedience training for assistance animals (service, emotional support, or therapy animals) to obtain department certification, with violations punishable by up to 93 days imprisonment or $500 fine.

• Requires certified instructors to submit approved curricula covering specific care and obedience standards including public presentability, appropriate public behavior, and basic commands; instructors must renew certification every 3 years with continuing professional development requirements.

• Mandates written agreements between instructors/providers and clients that include specific terms, curriculum descriptions, fees, and notice statements; requires issuance of completion certificates to handlers who successfully demonstrate required standards.

• Creates the Assistance Animal Health and Safety Fund supported by $100 nonrefundable application and renewal fees; fund revenues support program administration and instructor certification material development.

• Grants the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development authority to suspend or revoke certificates for violations including false statements, criminal convictions involving moral turpitude or animal cruelty, deceptive practices, and unconscionable business methods; establishes a public registry of certified instructors.