SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Mike Halpin’s bill to ensure pet’s basic needs are met if an owner has been arrested for an untethered animal has passed the Senate.
“Healthy and happy pets can contribute positively to the mental health and wellbeing of their owner and their community,” said Halpin (D-Rock Island). “But if something goes wrong and a pet is mistreated, we need to make sure the law allows for proper care of the animal while the owner is in the trial process.”
Current law allows a law enforcement officer making an arrest for an offense involving a companion animal to take possession of that animal, or other pets the alleged offender owns, for impoundment at an animal shelter or animal control in order to meet their basic needs. Halpin’s bill would add dog tethering to the list of offenses that would allow an officer to impound the companion animal.
“Taking on a pet is a big responsibility, and if someone can’t treat their pet right, we need to make sure it finds a safe place to stay,” said Halpin. “Making sure an animal is cared for is the humane thing to do.”
Senate Bill 2892 passed the Senate and heads to the House for further consideration.
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