summary
Introduced
01/31/2025
01/31/2025
In Committee
03/21/2025
03/21/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
104th General Assembly
Bill Summary
Amends the Animal Welfare Act. Provides that nothing in the Act permits the euthanization of a dog or cat or other pet in an animal shelter except in accordance with the requirements under certain provisions of the Humane Euthanasia in Animal Shelters Act. Amends the Humane Care for Animals Act. In the definition of "humanely euthanized", provides that "humanely euthanized" does not include euthanization of a dog, cat, or other pet in an animal shelter for any reason other than health reasons, attitude issues, or aggressiveness. Amends the Humane Euthanasia in Animal Shelters Act. Provides that, notwithstanding any other provision of any law, no person may euthanize a cat, dog, or other pet in an animal shelter unless the euthanization is for health reasons, attitude issues, or aggressiveness. Effective January 1, 2026.
AI Summary
This bill amends three different acts to significantly restrict the euthanasia of dogs, cats, and other pets in animal shelters. Specifically, the bill limits shelter euthanasia to only three specific circumstances: health reasons, attitude issues, or aggressiveness. Under the new provisions, animal shelters must follow strict guidelines when handling stray animals, including scanning for microchips, attempting to contact owners, and holding animals for a specified period before considering euthanasia. The bill requires shelters to make extensive efforts to locate and notify animal owners before any potential euthanasia, including using multiple contact methods like mail, phone, and email. Additionally, the legislation prohibits shelters from euthanizing animals for reasons beyond the three specified conditions, effectively creating a near-total ban on routine euthanasia in animal shelters. The bill will take effect on January 1, 2026, giving shelters and animal control facilities time to adjust to the new, more restrictive euthanasia protocols. The changes aim to protect animals and encourage more proactive efforts to reunite lost pets with their owners or find alternative placement options.
Committee Categories
Agriculture and Natural Resources
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee (on 03/21/2025)
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocNum=2410&GAID=18&DocTypeID=HB&SessionID=114&GA=104 |
| BillText | https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/104/HB/10400HB2410.htm |
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