The Chicago City Council has passed a revised ordinance that further regulates pet store sourcing but removed the hobby breeder requirements that would have placed onerous and potentially impossible requirements on hobbyists in the city. For the past year, AKC Government Relations and the Illinois Federation of Dog Clubs and Owners (IFDCO) have been working […]

On Tuesday, May 11, an Illinois House Committee will consider Senate Bill 153, which would provide an animal a court advocate in cases involving the health, safety, or an injury of a dog or cat. SB 153 is similar to bills introduced in other states this year, and is part of an effort to alter […]

Here are some highlights of state-level issues AKC GR is currently tracking.  Alabama – HB 235 would authorize food service establishments to allow pet dogs in outdoor restaurant seating areas and sets out access, sanitation, and other requirements. It also specifies that emotional support animals are not service animals within the meaning of the Americans […]

The Illinois Legislature returned from Spring Break and immediately continued work on bills impacting dog owners and breeders in the state.  AKC and the Illinois Federation of Dog Clubs are working hard to advocate for responsible purebred dog owners. We urge dog owners, Illinois dog clubs and breeders to join us in working to protect […]

Here are some highlights of state-level issues AKC GR is currently tracking.  Alabama – HB 235 would authorize food service establishments to allow pet dogs in outdoor restaurant seating areas and sets out access, sanitation, and other requirements. It also specifies that emotional support animals are not service animals within the meaning of the Americans […]

A bill is moving in the Illinois Senate that would provide an animal a court advocate in cases involving the health, safety, or an injury of a dog or cat. Senate Bill 153 is similar to bills being introduced in other states in an effort to alter the legal status of animals and provide them […]

The Illinois House and Senate continue to consider bills that would limit pet stores to sourcing dogs and cats only from shelters and rescues that have no affiliation with breeders. Yesterday, the House Consumer Protection Committee passed House Bill 1711, but there was a verbal commitment to negotiate on amendments prior to bringing the bill […]

What’s New from AKC Government Relations It’s safe to say this summer has turned out to be different than any other before. Whether you turn on the news, social media, or talk to your friends and family, COVID-19 continues to be top of mind. While you may assume that this has caused a hiatus on […]

This morning, the Chicago proposal that would have essentially banned hobby breeding and eliminate pet store consumer protection was held for consideration. During the full City Council meeting, Health and Human Services Committee Chairman Roderick Sawyer announced that Proposal O2020-2827 was being held in committee, thereby delaying the vote that was expected today. AKC Government […]

The Chicago City Council could vote on Wednesday (July 22) on a proposal that would ban hobby breeding in the city without extensive permits and requirements. Those who reside, have registered a litter, or participate in breed rescue activities in Chicago are encouraged to reach out to the City TODAY, express your concerns, and ask […]