New Illinois Laws 2019: Animals, Agriculture, Natural Resources

Milk Inspections (HB 04428) - Requires that DPH or the enforcing agency shall provide a dairy farm with a paper copy of the dairy farm’s inspection report at the time of inspection.

Illinois Geographic Information Council (HB 05027) - Repeals the User Advisory Committee of the Illinois Geographic Information Council.

Police-Service Dog Protection Act (HB 01671) - Requires a vehicle transporting a police dog to be equipped with a heat sensor that remotely alerts law enforcement if the vehicle reaches 85 degrees and a safety mechanism to lower the interior temperature.

Humane Care for Animals Act (SB 02270) - Allows a law enforcement officer to take temporary custody of a dog or cat if the animal is exposed in a manner that is life-threatening or may result in injury.

Pet Microchip (SB 02380) - Animal control facilities and animal shelters have to report intake and outcome statistics to the Department of Agriculture.

Reckless Dog Owner (SB 02386) - Creates a "reckless dog owner" determination if the owner's dog is deemed dangerous for killing another dog and is found running at large twice within 12 months of being deemed dangerous. A "reckless dog owner" is prohibited from owning dogs for between 12 and 36 months.

Animal Welfare Act Amendments (HB 05029) - Separates and defines "cat breeder," “dog breeder," “boarding" and "daycare operator" and makes conforming changes to the relevant statutes. Currently, ""kennel operator"" encompasses all 4 definitions.

Greenways and Trails (SB 02713) - Authorizes the Illinois Department of Natural Resources to plan, contract and construct recreational trails with public discourse and input.

Covered Farm Vehicle Plates (SB 03241) - Requires the Illinois Secretary of State to issue distinctive registration plates for all covered farm vehicles.

Wildlife Hunting Clothing (HB 04231) - Allow hunters to wear solid blaze pink colored clothing, in addition to blaze orange colored clothing, if they are hunting during either the deer or upland game bird seasons.