Nova Scotia Government Seeks Input For Service Animal Legislation

The Department of Justice (DOJ) is creating new legislation to govern service animals. is requesting information from the public on ‘the definition and protection of rights of service animal users’. Charlie MacDonald, a member of the Minister’s Advisory Panel on Accessibility Legislation said, "I am pleased that government is seeking clarity on the use of service animals. It's very important to hear from the community; they'll help shape the legislation and eventually help educate others on what the rights of service animal users are."

The use of service animals is increasing in Nova Scotia. Service animals may be used for people with autism, mobility issues, post-traumatic stress disorder, epilepsy, dissociative identity disorder, or other illness and disabilities. Justice Minister and Attorney General, Lena Metlege Diab said, "With the increasing use of service animals in Nova Scotia, we must ensure we are protecting the rights of people who rely on service animals. There is confusion and we need to clarify what qualifies as a service animal, and the training and identification expectations that would be required to receive legal protection." Anna MacRae, Executive Director of the Disabled Persons Commission agrees that the right of people need to be protected. MacRae said, "We are encouraged by the steps being taken to help define these rights."

The discussion paper and an online survey are now available. Nova Scotians are invited to phone 902-424-7729 for more information. Nova Scotians are asked to provide feedback and the DOJ is providing several communication venues including:

• Online
• Email
• Mail: Service Animals Consultation, Nova Scotia Department of Justice, Policy, Planning and Research, P.O. Box 7, Halifax, N.S., B3J 2L6
• TTY through the Disabled Persons Commission at 902-424-2667, or toll free within Nova Scotia at 1-877-996-9954

Three open-house consultations will occur:

• June 18, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Sydney Justice Centre, in the multi-purpose room on the lower level, 136 Charlotte St.
• June 22, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Human Rights Commission, in the resolution conference room, 6th floor, 1601 Lower Water St., Halifax
• June 26, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Yarmouth Justice Centre, in the conference room, 164 Main St. (French interpretation services available at this session)

Anyone planning to attend a consultation that requires accommodation for a disability, may inform organizers by calling 902-424-7729.