FreeImages - Chris Johnson
FreeImages - Chris Johnson
Illinois is no longer home to the best animal protection practices in the country.
After years at the top of the list, the Animal Legal Defense Fund now rates the state behind Maine in the category.
“Maine passed a courtroom animal advocate program law, which basically allows there to be a victim advocate in the courtroom for the animal victim,” said Kathleen Wood, staff attorney with the Animal Legal Defense Fund. “But Illinois is definitely not getting worse. It still has very comprehensive and strong laws overall.”
The agency also signaled out Illinois for its felony animal fighting provisions for all species.
“Illinois has very comprehensive laws overall,” Wood added. “Veterinarians are required to report suspected animal cruelty, also juveniles and animal hoarders are required to undergo psychological evaluation and, if necessary, treatment."
Oregon, Colorado, and Rhode Island round out the top five, while New Mexico ranks at the bottom. The full report can be found at the Animal Legal Defense Fund’s website
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