HB 5488
Relating to establishing the offense of assault upon or injury to a service animal; and providing for penalties.
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Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed House of Delegates
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill creates a new crime in West Virginia – assault or injury to a service animal. It defines what constitutes such an offense, including reckless actions like causing harm or interfering with the animal or its handler. Individuals convicted of this crime could face jail time, fines, and be required to pay restitution for damages to the service animal and its handler.
Key provisions
- Defines ‘assault upon or injury to a service animal’.
- Establishes that causing harm to a service animal assisting a person with a disability is a crime.
- Prohibits taunting, tormenting, striking, or injuring a service animal.
- Outlaws interfering with a service animal or its handler.
- Requires restitution for damages to the service animal, its handler, and covers veterinary expenses.
- Specifies penalties as up to one year in jail or a $500 fine, or both.
Who is affected
- Service animal handlers
- Individuals with disabilities who rely on service animals
- The general public (regarding potential offenses)
Notable changes
- Creates a specific criminal offense for harming service animals.
- Includes restitution provisions to cover significant costs associated with the animal and its handler.
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