HB4778 - 104th General Assembly (2025-2026)

ANIMAL WELFARE-DOG DEALER
Last Action
3/18/2026 - House: Assigned to Agriculture & Conservation Committee
Hearings
Agriculture & Conservation Committee Hearing Mar 24 2026 2:00PM Capitol Building Room 115 Springfield, IL
Statutes Amended In Order of Appearance
225 ILCS 605/2  from Ch. 8, par. 302
225 ILCS 605/3.10 new  
225 ILCS 605/10  from Ch. 8, par. 310
Synopsis As Introduced
Amends the Animal Welfare Act. Provides that the definition of "dog dealer" does not include a person who sells dogs at retail to the public. Provides that a person who sells dogs at retail to the public, shall not be considered an animal shelter under the Act. Defines "at retail to the public". Requires a dog breeder to provide each dog in the dog breeder's facility with a primary enclosure that complies with certain requirements. Requires a dog breeder to provide all adult dogs in the dog breeder's facility with constant, unfettered access to an exercise area of sufficient size to ensure proper physical development, health, and socialization. Provides that the exercise area should, at a minimum, be at least twice the amount of space required for the primary enclosure. Provides that the Illinois Department of Agriculture may refuse to issue or renew or may suspend or revoke a license due to an individual operating without a proper license under the Act.
Actions
DateChamberAction
2/02/2026HouseFiled with the Clerk by Rep. Rita Mayfield
2/06/2026HouseFirst Reading
2/06/2026HouseReferred to Rules Committee
3/18/2026HouseAssigned to Agriculture & Conservation Committee
3/23/2026HouseAdded Co-Sponsor Rep. Barbara Hernandez