WV SB893

Creates a new criminal offense for knowingly causing or attempting to cause physical harm to a service animal that is assisting a person who is blind, deaf, hearing impaired, or has a mobility impairment

Prohibits reckless behavior toward service animals including taunting, tormenting, striking, throwing objects at, or interfering with the animal's ability to assist its handler

Violation constitutes a misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in jail, a fine up to $500, or both

Requires offenders to pay restitution for veterinary bills, medical costs, damaged equipment, and retraining costs for the service animal

If the service animal dies or suffers serious physical harm requiring replacement, offenders must pay for a replacement animal and associated training costs