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Committee hears bill to recognize Service Dog Week; no committee action taken
Summary
Senate Bill 198, proposing the third week in September as New Hampshire Service Dog Week, drew testimony from the bill sponsor and nonprofit advocates; the committee heard the testimonies but took no formal vote during the hearing
The Executive Departments and Administration Committee heard testimony on Senate Bill 198, which would designate the third week in September as New Hampshire Service Dog Week to recognize service dogs and encourage public awareness of their role in assisting people with disabilities.
Senator David Waters introduced the bill and said it would invite government and communities to observe the week and “increase awareness of the contribution of service dogs and those who train them.” He cited national statistics on disability prevalence and the range of conditions service dogs assist, including mobility, sensory impairments and medical-alert functions.
Vernon (Brenton) Madden, founder and chairman of the New Hampshire Coalition for the Support of Service Dogs, testified in favor and said the coalition provides education, advocacy and financial assistance for veterinary bills. Madden emphasized the legal distinction between service dogs (which have protections under the Americans with Disabilities Act) and emotional-support animals, which do not have the same legal status.
No committee vote on SB 198 was recorded during the hearing; the bill’s public hearing was closed and the committee moved on to other items. Committee members who spoke expressed general support for recognition of service dogs, and a sponsor representative said he would follow up if the committee wanted a committee report or further action.
