Service animal support allowed in schools.

HF 1827 requires Minnesota school districts to allow students with disabilities to bring their service animals (trained dogs or animals assisting with disabilities) into school settings as part of their individualized education plans. The bill prohibits schools from denying access to service animals and mandates that districts provide staff support - such as helping with tethering or water - for students to use their animals safely. Schools must modify policies by August 2025 to comply with federal law, but they are not responsible for the animal’s care, feeding, or veterinary needs. The bill ensures students with disabilities can serve as their own service animal handlers without requiring a third party.