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Bill > SB82
SD SB82
SD SB82Prohibit the misrepresentation of an animal as a service animal and to provide a penalty therefor.
summary
Introduced
01/14/2026
01/14/2026
In Committee
02/02/2026
02/02/2026
Crossed Over
01/28/2026
01/28/2026
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2026 Regular Session
Bill Summary
An Act to prohibit the misrepresentation of an animal as a service animal and to provide a penalty therefor.
AI Summary
This bill adds a new section to state law that makes it illegal for someone to intentionally pretend an animal they own is a service animal in public places to gain benefits they are not entitled to, knowing they don't qualify. A service animal is specifically defined as a dog trained to perform tasks directly related to a person's disability, as outlined in federal regulations (28 C.F.R. § 36.104), and simply having a dog for emotional support or companionship does not qualify it as a service animal. Violating this law is considered a Class 2 misdemeanor, which is a minor criminal offense.
Committee Categories
Justice
Sponsors (12)
Taffy Howard (R)*,
John Shubeck (R)*,
Heather Baxter (R),
John Carley (R),
Tim Goodwin (R),
Kevin Jensen (R),
Phil Jensen (R),
Scott Moore (R),
Will Mortenson (R),
Lauren Nelson (R),
Carl Perry (R),
Tom Pischke (R),
Last Action
Scheduled for hearing (on 02/25/2026)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://sdlegislature.gov/#/Session/Bill/26554 |
| BillText | https://mylrc.sdlegislature.gov/api/Documents/294108.pdf |
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