New Hampshire service dog owners say a bill that would allow companion dogs into restaurants would make things harder for them.
To supporters of House Bill 249, the bill gives restaurant owners the choice to become canine-friendly, and opens doors to those struggling to bring non-service companion dogs. The Concord Monitor reports Carol Holmes testified before a House committee that the bill would create new challenges for people's actual service dogs interacting with animals without proper training.
Presently, state laws allow service animals but ban all other animals in restaurants. Restaurant owners are also allowed to have their own "companion dog" on the premises providing they display signs drawing attention to it.
Mary Kusterin, who spoke in favor of the bill, says she understands concerns, but believes restaurants can decide.
