New Minnesota law unleashes help for volunteer service dog trainers
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A new state law aims to clear the way for more Minnesotans to step up to train service dogs.
Why it matters: These crucial canine companions make a major difference for people with disabilities.
The big picture: Groups that train service dogs say one of their biggest challenges is finding volunteers who are willing and able to take on the work of raising and socializing the animals.
- One barrier, Can Do Canines executive director Jeff Johnson says, was that laws protecting people with service dogs from housing discrimination didn't apply to the trainers.
How it works: The bipawtisan legislation, signed into law by Gov. Tim Walz Thursday, limits landlords and HOAs from placing restrictions or extra charges on residents who are training an animal through an accredited organization.
- The new law applies to both volunteers and paid trainers.
What they're saying: Johnson, a former Hennepin County commissioner and gubernatorial candidate, told reporters that the nonprofit has encountered eight to 10 situations in recent years in which people who wanted to help were unable to because of residential rules.
- "My guess is there are a lot more people out there who would never have brought it up," he said. "This will help."
The bottom line: Lydia Roseth, a student at Hamline University, says she has been able to take on more academically and socially since receiving her service dog, Flint, from Can Do Canines in February.
- "He has not only changed my life, but he has saved my life," she told reporters at a news conference Thursday.