MN HF3312

Creates criminal penalty for intentionally and without justification causing bodily harm to a service animal or rendering it unable to perform its duties.

Establishes tiered penalties: misdemeanor for first violation; gross misdemeanor for second or subsequent violation within five years.

Increases penalties to up to two years imprisonment and $5,000 fine for violations causing substantial bodily harm to service animals or animals harmed to threaten, intimidate, or terrorize another person.

Requires courts to order restitution from convicted persons for costs including veterinary expenses, temporary replacement services, and service animal replacement or retraining costs, with discretion to reduce amounts if person is indigent.

Preserves right to pursue civil remedies for service animal harm in addition to criminal penalties; effective August 1, 2010.