Whereas, as a result of the BC Guide Dog and Service Dog Act which was enacted in January 2016, people who are blind, visually impaired, deaf and require a guide dog to safely navigate, are being harassed, repeatedly asked for identification, subjected to government red tape, and denied access to public space without meaningful recourse or sanctions to deter discriminatory acts: Therefore be it resolved that the provincial government amend the BC Guide Dog and Service Dog Act to: 1.Reduce the barriers that limit enforcement of the law and impose stiffer penalties against those who refuse access to guide dog teams; 2.Change the BC Guide Dog and Service Dog Act to include guide dogs that are already certified by the International Guide Dog Federation; and 3.Impose restrictions as to who can ask to see identification and under what circumstances.
Ministry of Public Safety Solicitor General The Guide Dog and Service Dog Act was brought into force with the goals of strengthening public safety, ensuring high training standards and improving access to public places. The Act creates a framework that complements the rights provided to individuals under the Human Rights Code. The Act recognizes international standards for certification of guide dogs and service dogs, including the International Guide Dog Federation standard. Dogs certified by the International Guide Dog Federation are automatically recognized for certification under the Act. The Ministry is taking steps to increase public awareness regarding certification, rights and recourse, access in public spaces and education for businesses to address concerns regarding the legislation.