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New plan aims to curb phony emotional support animals in Michigan


A new push backed by bipartisan lawmakers in Lansing looks to create a framework of rules for people seeking an emotional support animal legally in Michigan.
A new push backed by bipartisan lawmakers in Lansing looks to create a framework of rules for people seeking an emotional support animal legally in Michigan.
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A new push backed by bipartisan lawmakers in Lansing looks to create a framework of rules for people seeking an emotional support animal legally in Michigan.

The plan is backed by Rep. Matt Hall, R-Emmett Township and Rep. Sara Cambensy, D-Marquette, as an effort to root out fraud and rein in what Hall called ‘the wild west’ when it comes to who qualifies for an emotional support animal, or ESA.

The proposal would make it a misdemeanor offense to falsely tell a landlord that a pet is actually an ESA and allows landlords to request documentation from a doctor, verifying the animal is in fact necessary due to a disability.

Cambensy, who is backing the criminal aspect of the bill, said people can go online and seek a doctor who would prescribe an ESA. Under the plan, a physician must be licensed in Michigan to write a prescription for an animal.

“If it’s with a doctor that’s licensed in the state of Michigan, I think there’s a better chance to have that relationship where people are getting help, the ones that need emotional support help animals are allowed to,” Cambensy said.

Some groups raised concerns about violating privacy rights of people, like the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, or HIPAA. Hall said he doesn’t to get into litigation with people, rather he’s trying set standards and ensure people aren’t abusing the system.

“We all agree that emotional support animals are needed for people with disabilities,” Hall said. “Where there is not clarity is well, what are the rules for getting one.”

Testimony was heard during the House Committee on Regulatory Reform, chaired by Rep. Michael Webber, R-Rochester Hills.

Webber said the conversation will likely continue with other members of the committee before a vote is scheduled. Hall and Webber both said they are open to amendments, specifically to address the federal laws and privacy concerns.

The plan does not change current laws for service animals, which are different from emotional support animals.



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