Bullard Advances Bill to Prevent Service Animal Misrepresentation

OKLAHOMA CITY – Sen. David Bullard, R-Durant, advanced legislation to prevent people from misrepresenting their pets as service animals.

The Senate Public Safety Committee on Tuesday passed House Bill 1178, which would make it a misdemeanor for someone to knowingly misrepresent an animal in their possession as a service animal to gain the same privileges granted to individuals with disabilities.

“This bill is intended to strongly deter anyone attempting to exploit the system by falsely claiming their pet is a service animal,” Bullard said. “Those who pass their pets off as service animals create obstacles that can make it difficult for Oklahomans with disabilities to feel comfortable going out in public. By holding offenders accountable, we’re ensuring true accessibility for those who depend on it.”

HB 1178, which was authored by Rep. Marilyn Stark, R-Bethany, is now eligible to be heard on the Senate floor.

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For more information, contact: Sen. David Bullard at (405) 521-5586 or David.Bullard@oksenate.gov