SF 4831 Summary

• Amends Minnesota Statutes to extend service dog access rights to persons training dogs to be service animals, defined according to Code of Federal Regulations, title 28, section 36.104.

• Grants service dog trainees the right to be accompanied by the dog in all public places listed in section 363A.19, with trainers remaining liable for any damage caused by the dog.

• Entitles service dog trainees to full and equal access to all housing accommodations without being required to pay extra compensation for the dog.

• Voids and makes unenforceable any deed restrictions, covenants, ordinances, rental agreements, or homeowners association provisions that limit possession of a dog being trained as a service animal or require additional fees.

• Allows prevailing parties to recover reasonable attorney fees and expenses in disputes over service dog trainee rights or violations of legitimate restrictions or limitations, effective August 1, 2024.