Bill > SB1493

This bill requires sellers, providers, and verifiers of emotional support animals to provide clear written notices that explain the legal distinctions between service animals and emotional support animals. Specifically, these parties must inform buyers or recipients that emotional support animals do not have the specialized training required to be classified as service animals, are not entitled to the same legal rights and accommodations, and that misrepresenting an emotional support animal as a service animal is unlawful. The bill mandates that these written notices must be in at least 12-point bold type and included on receipts or attached documentation. Sellers of emotional support animal-related items like certificates, vests, or identification tags must also provide similar disclaimers. The legislation establishes civil penalties for non-compliance, with fines ranging from $100 to $250 for a first violation and at least $500 for subsequent violations. The purpose of the bill is to increase public awareness about the legal status of emotional support animals and prevent misrepresentation, drawing on definitions from the Americans with Disabilities Act and Fair Housing Act. The bill will take effect on July 1, 2050, and does not impact any rights, penalties, or proceedings that existed before its effective date.

Business and Industry, Justice

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1493&year=2026