What is the CTA’s policy regarding service animals?

The choice stating that service animals are allowed on all CTA buses correctly reflects the policy of the Chicago Transit Authority. Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), service animals are defined as dogs that are individually trained to perform tasks for people with disabilities. The CTA recognizes the importance of these animals in assisting individuals and ensures that they can accompany their handlers on all forms of public transportation, including buses.

This policy is grounded in creating an inclusive environment where individuals with disabilities can navigate the city with the help of their service animals. It's important to note that emotional support animals, which provide comfort but do not have the same training to perform specific tasks, do not fall under the same category as service animals and are not permitted in the same way.

Understanding the ADA's definitions and the CTA's adherence to these guidelines clarifies why the inclusion of service animals is essential for supporting riders who rely on them for independence and mobility within the public transit system.