New law expands duties of Advisory Board of Livestock Commissioners

7/13/2010 10:42:00 AM
By: WJBC Staff

Governor Pat Quinn signed legislation expanding the responsibilities of the Advisory Board of Livestock Commissioners in order to ensure the well-being of poultry and domestic animals, including cats and dogs. “It is important that all animals - from household pets to livestock - are treated in a manner that is ethical and humane, and this bill is an important measure to ensure just that,” Governor Quinn said. Under Senate Bill 3604, sponsored by Rep. Brandon Phelps (D-Harrisburg) and Sen. Michael Frerichs (D-Champaign), the Advisory Board of Livestock Commissioners will now be responsible for approving administrative rules related to the well-being of poultry and domestic animals. The Board will also work to prevent, eliminate and control diseases that affect them. Under the law, the Department of Agriculture (IDOA) will be required to submit rules and regulations involving animal welfare issues that the Board previously did not oversee. “The Illinois Department of Agriculture is committed to the positive well-being of all animals, and we look forward to working with the board on continuing that effort,” IDOA Director Tom Jennings added. The Board consists of 25 members, 17 of which are appointed by the Governor. Under the new law, each member appointed by the Governor will serve a five-year term. Previously, there were no term limits for the Governor’s appointments. The Governor will have the authority to replace inactive board members under the new law. The new law is effective immediately.
                      

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