Though puppy mill legislation in Illinois stalled in this session of the state legislature, both the House and Senate passed SJR 56Â which establishes a Joint Task Force chaired by the Director of Agriculture.
The Joint Task Force is to include animal welfare advocates and representatives of the breeding and pet store industries, and veterinarians.Â
By October 1, 2009 the task force is to offer recommendations for improvements in the breeding and pet sale businesses including humane care and treatment, housing and other requirements for keeping animals, veterinary care, record keeping, and consumer protection. A lot of what was addressed by the bill defeated this session.
Senate sponsors were Sens. Dan Kotowski and Pamela J. Althoff. Rep. John A. Fitchey was the House sponsor.