MI SB0248

Expands eligibility for courtroom support dogs to include individuals 18 years of age or older with a developmental disability, in addition to those under 18 years of age with a developmental disability.

Maintains existing eligibility for support persons and other witness protections for individuals under 16 years of age or 16 years and older with a developmental disability in applicable criminal proceedings.

Applies to prosecutions involving child abuse, sexual abuse, criminal sexual conduct, human trafficking, vulnerable adult abuse, and assaultive crimes.

Permits witnesses to have a courtroom support dog and its handler sit with or in close proximity to the witness during testimony, subject to notice requirements and court approval.

Effective 90 days after enactment.