I got this from Harmony House, the shelter from which I adopted Cassie. They don't get too involved in legal matters on a regular basis. Harmony House is opposed because they feel there should be an exemption for shelters. I think that's an appropriate reason to be opposed. I put this in the Dog House for anyone who wants to comment or, if you live in Illinois, if you want to research this further and follow up.

If you need to know who your state representative is, go here: http://www.elections.state.il.us/


Thank you,
Elyse


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HB 1166, introduced on 2/8/11 by Rep. Patrick J. Verschoore (from Rock Island), defines anyone with 7 companion animals as a "Companion Animal Hoarder," no matter how good their care UNLESS you have a special permit from your County.

The first violation is a ...Class B misdemeanor; the second and any subsequent offenses are Class 4 Felonies, with each day counting as a separate offense.

There is NO explicit exemption of IL licensed breeders, rescues, vets, kennels, stables, pet dealers, pet stores, research labs, etc.

http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/97/H...00HB1166lv.pdf
PLEASE contact your state representative with regard to this bill, and forward this information to others who will also take action.