Bill > AB238

This bill amends Wisconsin statutes to prohibit hotels, inns, motels, and tourist rooming houses from discriminating against individuals who are accompanied by search and rescue dogs. It defines "dog handler" as someone trained to work with a search and rescue dog, and "search and rescue dog" as a dog trained by a recognized agency to find lost or missing individuals. The bill makes it illegal for these establishments to deny entry, charge higher prices, or publish discriminatory communications based on a person being accompanied by a search and rescue dog. However, these protections apply only if the dog is wearing a visible harness or cape indicating its status and is leashed, and the handler may be asked to provide verification of the dog's credentials. Establishments can exclude a search and rescue dog if it would fundamentally alter services or jeopardize safety, but the handler is responsible for the dog's care during any separation. The handler remains liable for any sanitation issues or damage caused by the dog. Furthermore, hotels and similar establishments must adjust their policies to ensure these handlers and their dogs are not separated and can access all public areas, and that the handler is not segregated from other guests.

Business and Industry, Justice

https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/2025/proposals/reg/asm/bill/ab238