LETTERS: NO EXTRA FEES CAN BE CHARGED FOR GUIDE DOGS

To the editor:

I would like to take this opportunity to educate the public about provisions for service dogs. There are several types of service dogs for people with a variety of impairments. Whether an individual is blind, hearing impaired, has seizures or is mobility challenged, with service dogs they are entitled to ride on any public transportation that is available to the general public. Anyone who is accompanied by a service dog should not be charged extra for the dog.

Federal and state laws explain more clearly about service dogs. Missouri statutes guarantee a blind person the right to be accompanied by a specially trained dog guide in all public accommodations and on all public transportation. A dog-guide user also has a legal right to equal housing accommodations in all housing. No extra charge can be levied because of the dog's presence. Under the Americans With Disabilities Act and its implementing regulations, the right of a blind person to be accompanied by a dog guide in places that serve the public is guaranteed.

MICKIE JEAN ORMSBY

Sikeston, Mo.