Source: KOTA Territory
South Dakota lawmakers have unanimously passed legislation aimed at protecting legitimate service animals while penalizing those who falsely represent pets as service animals. The state Senate approved the measures in a 34–0 vote. Senate Bill 82 makes misrepresenting an animal as a service animal a Class 2 misdemeanor, carrying penalties of up to 30 days in jail, a $500 fine, or both. Senate Bill 81 strengthens protections against injuring or harassing legitimate service animals and their handlers.
Disabled veteran Christine Speirs, who relies on her service dog Geordi for mobility, welcomed the legislation, noting frequent confrontations caused by public confusion and misuse of service animal labels. The bills also clearly define service animals as dogs trained to perform specific tasks for individuals with disabilities, explicitly excluding emotional support animals. Supporters say the laws reduce ambiguity and abuse. The bills now move to the House, and if signed, South Dakota would join 34 other states with similar laws.