ST. PAUL, Minn. — On Monday, February 24, Senator Bonnie Westlin (DFL – Plymouth) presented Senate File 1317 to the Senate Human Services Committee. The bill would allow a person actively training a service dog to have full and equal access to all housing accommodations. A dog must be actively trained by an organization accredited by Assistance Dogs International or the International Guide Dog Federation to be considered under this proposal.
“In Minnesota, we look after our neighbors, including our neighbors with disabilities,” said Sen. Westlin. “Some homeowners association rules have prevented volunteers from hosting and training assistance dogs in their homes. I am so proud to carry this bill, which exemplifies Minnesota’s values of caring for our neighbors by reaching out and helping each other live better lives.”
Can Do Canines, a local organization that provides assistance dogs to Minnesotans with disabilities, worked closely with Sen. Westlin on this bill.
It costs around $45,000 to raise and train one assistance dog. Can Do Canines give away all their assistance dogs for free. This is only possible because of the many volunteers who raise, train, and socialize these dogs for anywhere from a couple of days to two years before returning them to change someone’s life.
The bill was referred to the Senate Judiciary and Public Safety Committee. You can view the entire bill presentation here.
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Learn more about Sen. Westlin.
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