Performing Animals Protection Amendment Bill Rejected

Posted 26 November 2025 Written by Acts Online
Category Parliament

Brought to you by SA Legal Academy: In terms of a report tabled in the National Assembly, the Portfolio Committee on Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development has rejected the **Performing Animals Protection Amendment Bill**.

The **Performing Animals Protection Amendment Bill**, which was introduced in April 2025, sought to amend the **Performing Animals Protection Act, No. 24 of 1935** to facilitate access to public and private buildings, areas, and transport for persons dependent on assistance animals. The rejection follows a legislative process that commenced in June 2023.

In its assessment, the Committee acknowledged the importance of the Bill’s objectives but determined that the human rights issues involved are better addressed through alternative legislative frameworks. The Committee further noted potential regulatory overlaps and conflicts with existing statutes, including:

  • The **Animals Protection Act, No. 71 of 1962**, regarding the welfare of assistance animals; and
  • The **Animal Matters Amendment Act, No. 42 of 1993**, regarding legal liability for human injuries caused by animals.

The rejection of the Bill maintains the current regulatory status quo, where access for assistance animals is not specifically codified under the **Performing Animals Protection Act, No. 24 of 1935**. Compliance regarding disability access remains governed by general anti-discrimination laws.

What this means for you, your business, or your clients

  • For yourself: No change to current professional obligations; continue to advise on disability access based on the **Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996** and existing common law.
  • For your business: Facilities and transport operators are not required to implement the specific animal-access protocols proposed in the Bill, but must ensure ongoing compliance with the **Promotion of Equality and Prevention of Unfair Discrimination Act, No. 4 of 2000**.
  • For your clients: Advise clients that the proposed statutory right of access for assistance animals has been rejected, and legal remedies for access denial remain limited to general anti-discrimination and human rights litigation frameworks.

Originally published at https://legalacademy.co.za/news/read/disability-assistance-animals-da-bill-rejected

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