§1972. Purposes and intent

            The purpose and intent of this Chapter is to restore integrity into the process of determining whether an individual has a disability which requires the use of a support animal and to impose penalties on those who determine that an individual requires the use of a support animal without having a reliable basis to do so and those who claim the need for a support animal on account of a disability or handicap without having a reliable basis for that need. It is the further purpose and intent of this Chapter to place limitations on individuals and businesses selling support animals and items attendant to support animals. It is also the purpose and intent of this Chapter to penalize those who misrepresent an animal as a service dog and to provide immunity to owners and lessors of residential dwellings from and against liability for injuries and damages caused by support animals and service dogs.

            Acts 2024, No. 558, §1.