Bill > HB2430

This bill amends the Illinois Wildlife Code to allow healthy striped skunks and raccoons to be released alive after being removed from an area where they are causing damage or posing a risk. Under the existing law, wildlife that is damaging property or causing safety concerns could be destroyed, but this amendment specifically permits the live release of these two species. The Department of Natural Resources is required to develop and adopt rules within one year that establish guidelines for the safe release of skunks and raccoons, with the aim of protecting public health, welfare, and safety. The bill continues to maintain the existing process for obtaining wildlife removal permits, which includes investigation by the Department and specific conditions for removal, but adds this new option for more humane treatment of skunks and raccoons that are considered nuisance wildlife. The rules will likely address factors such as appropriate release locations, potential disease screening, and other safety considerations to ensure that releasing these animals does not create additional risks for humans or other wildlife.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocNum=2430&GAID=18&DocTypeID=HB&SessionID=114&GA=104