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New law allows leader animals in training into public spaces

Jeremy Bezanger
/
Unsplash

Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed a law Thursday that allow handlers to bring service dogs in training into more public spaces.

The legislation was sponsored by Republican state Representative Tommy Brann, who said he introduced the bills at the request of a training program. Brann says his family’s restaurant already welcomes service animals.

“It’s good for the dog who’s going to be a loving companion of the person that they’re helping, and I think it will actually be better trained,” he said.

The law requires animals in training to remain in a leash or harness. Under the new law, businesses can also ask trainers to leave if an animal misbehaves. Brann says he does not expect that will be a problem.

The legislation was sponsored by state Representative Tommy Brann. He says this will allow handlers to take animals from training centers with small, imitation set-ups to actual stores and restaurants.

“This training it just gives them real-life situations so it just gives them better training.”

Businesses can ask trainers to leave if an animal misbehaves. Brann says he does not expect that will be a problem.

Rick Pluta is Senior Capitol Correspondent for the Michigan Public Radio Network. He has been covering Michigan’s Capitol, government, and politics since 1987. His journalism background includes stints with UPI, The Elizabeth (NJ) Daily Journal, The (Pontiac, MI) Oakland Press, and WJR. He is also a lifelong public radio listener.
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