MN HF1827

School districts are prohibited from denying students access to service animals that are part of their individualized education program (IEP), and students have the right to make autonomous decisions about service animal access in educational settings.

Service animal support may be included as a "related service" in a student's IEP, requiring districts to provide staff assistance for tethering/untethering, getting water, prompting commands, and escorting students throughout school.

School staff must receive training from the service animal trainer on how the animal impacts the student and how to effectively handle and work with the animal.

Districts are not responsible for care or supervision of service animals (toileting, feeding, grooming, veterinary care), and cannot require students to provide a third-party handler.

Districts must modify their policies to comply with ADA Title II and federal regulations (28 CFR 35.136) by August 1, 2025, with the law effective the day following final enactment.