What happens if a landlord in South Dakota refuses to rent to a tenant with a guide dog?

When a landlord in South Dakota refuses to rent to a tenant with a guide dog, the situation falls under the regulations concerning assistance animals and fair housing laws. By law, service animals, which include guide dogs, are specifically granted certain protections that prevent discrimination based on disability.

The correct response indicates that the landlord could face legal penalties and that the tenant can file a lawsuit. This dual action illustrates the tenant's rights and the potential consequences for the landlord's discriminatory behavior. Legally, if a landlord refuses to accommodate a service animal, the tenant has grounds to pursue legal action, which may include filing a complaint with housing authorities or seeking damages through the courts. This serves to uphold the principles of equal access and non-discrimination within housing, particularly for individuals relying on service animals due to disabilities.

In summary, the answer captures the potential legal ramifications that the landlord could encounter, as well as the recourse available to the tenant, reflecting the serious implications of refusing to comply with fair housing laws.