Bullard’s service animal fraud bill moves to House

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Senate voted Monday to prohibit anyone without a disability or who is not trained to assist those with disabilities from fraudulently representing a pet as a service animal. Senate Bill 1223 was introduced by Sen. David Bullard, R-Durant.

“Sadly, there are some in our society who will take advantage of the benefits of a service animal and impersonate their need for one, thereby causing harm to those who have a legitimate need of such an animal. We’ve seen it in various scenarios, and business owners are begging for help,” Bullard said. “Now, we are facing the fraudulent use of these animals, causing hardships on kids, veterans, and many others who have a real need for them.  My bill will make this disgusting activity a crime. We will not stand for people impersonating those who are disabled, all to save money or bring their favorite pet to a store that does not allow it.”

Under SB 1223, anyone without a disability or who is not trained to assist those with disabilities would be guilty of a misdemeanor and face a fine of $500 if he or she attempts to portray a pet as a service animal to gain treatment or benefits provided to those with disabilities. The bill would allow any public accommodation to post signage stating that is it is a crime under state law to misrepresent an animal as a service animal.

The bill will next be considered in the House of Representatives, where Rep. Dustin Roberts, R-Durant, is the principal House author.

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Sen. Bullard: (405) 521-5586 or David.Bullard@oksenate.gov