SB 239 Wisconsin Senate · 2025-2026 Regular Session

Relating to: prohibiting hotels, inns, and motels from discriminating against dog handlers who are accompanied by search and rescue dogs.

SB 239 prohibits hotels, motels, and inns from discriminating against dog handlers accompanied by certified search and rescue (SAR) dogs. It requires these businesses to allow full access and equal treatment without extra fees, discriminatory communications, or segregation, provided the SAR dog wears an identifying harness or cape and is leashed. Exceptions apply if accommodating the dog would fundamentally alter services or jeopardize safety, but businesses must modify policies to prevent separation of handlers from their dogs. The bill directly affects hospitality businesses and SAR professionals who rely on these facilities during emergency response work.
Bill status failed 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
May 2025
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced May 9, 2025 Last action Mar 23, 2026
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Full legislative history

Actions timeline

Total actions
12
Key actions
2
Committee
1
Amendments
2
Jan 13, 2026
Upper · Passed
Report passage as amended recommended by Committee on Judiciary and Public Safety, Ayes 8, Noes 0
upper
Jan 13, 2026
Upper · Passed
Report adoption of Senate Amendment 1 recommended by Committee on Judiciary and Public Safety, Ayes 8, Noes 0
upper
Oct 1, 2025
Introduced
Senate Amendment 1 offered by Senator James
upper
May 9, 2025
Introduced
Introduced by Senators James and Wanggaard; cosponsored by Representatives Green, Andraca, Mursau, O'Connor and Piwowarczyk
upper
2 primary · 0 co-sponsors

Sponsors