NY S05080

Expands protection against discrimination by adding "therapy dogs" as defined in Agriculture and Markets Law to the list of animals whose owners cannot be denied access to public accommodations.

Defines "therapy dog" to include dogs trained to aid emotional and physical health in hospitals, nursing homes, retirement homes, personal residences, and other settings, as well as dogs being trained or bred for such purpose.

Specifies that discrimination protections apply regardless of dog breed and cover both the person with disability and the dog trainer engaged in training work.

Adds housing services and discrimination-related matters to the duties of state veterans' service agencies in assisting veterans and armed forces members.

Takes effect immediately upon enactment.