Crime to misrepresent service animal

[Mohammed Elzagha]

Misrepresenting a pet as a service animal will soon be a crime in Alabama

“Al.com reports it will soon be a criminal act to claim your pet is a service animal when it is not. That includes anyone who misrepresents a pet as a service animal or an animal-in-training in public spaces or housing.

If someone knowingly and willingly misrepresents themselves as an owner or trainer of a service animal they will be guilty of a Class C misdemeanor. The fine is $100 and 100 hours of community service with an organization that serves individuals with a disability.

The new law will also protect businesses and their employees from being charged if someone pretending to have a service animal is caught on their premises. If a service animal is removed for being a direct threat to others at a public place they must provide the person with a disability the option of returning without having the service animal on the premises.”

https://whnt.com/2019/08/15/misrepresenting-a-pet-as-a-service-animal-will-soon-be-a-crime-in-alabama/