Senator’s proposed bill would prevent service animal misrepresentation

A purebred golden retriever dog is wearing a animal harness to indicate it is a service dog that will aid blind, visually impaired, or special needs people to stay safe.

April 16, 2025

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.