Tucson Standard

U.S. Congressman Juan Ciscomani (AZ-06) has led a letter to Dr. Mandy Cohen, Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), urging a revision of the CDC’s Biosafety in Microbiological and Biomedical Laboratories (BMBL) guideline manual. The proposed change aims to allow service dogs in laboratories for individuals with disabilities who rely on them.

The current BMBL guidance states, “Animals and plants not associated with the work being performed are not permitted in the laboratory.” This policy leaves no room for an objective assessment regarding equal or equitable access for those with disabilities who use service dogs.

Ciscomani is advocating for an amendment to this guideline, suggesting it should read: “Animals and plants not associated with the work being performed are not permitted in the laboratory; service dogs may be an exception based on an individualized risk assessment.”

“Individuals who utilize service dogs who study or work in laboratories should not be judged or discriminated against due to their disabilities,” said Ciscomani. “Whether they need new assistance due to an accident, or have a lifelong disability, this guideline is denying these individuals reasonable accommodation and forcing them to put their ambitions and career on hold. My proposed solution would expand equitable access to students and working professionals in the science industry who rely on a service dog for medical assistance.”

Joining Ciscomani in this effort are Representatives Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01), David Valadao (CA-22), Brandon Williams (NY-22), and Vern Buchanan (FL-16).

Full text of the letter is available here.