HB 4778 Illinois House · 104th Regular Session

ANIMAL WELFARE-DOG DEALER

Summary
Amends the Animal Welfare Act. Provides that the definition of "dog dealer" does not include a person who sells dogs at retail to the public. Provides that a person who sells dogs at retail to the public, shall not be considered an animal shelter under the Act. Defines "at retail to the public". Requires a dog breeder to provide each dog in the dog breeder's facility with a primary enclosure that complies with certain requirements. Requires a dog breeder to provide all adult dogs in the dog breeder's facility with constant, unfettered access to an exercise area of sufficient size to ensure proper physical development, health, and socialization. Provides that the exercise area should, at a minimum, be at least twice the amount of space required for the primary enclosure. Provides that the Illinois Department of Agriculture may refuse to issue or renew or may suspend or revoke a license due to an individual operating without a proper license under the Act.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Feb 2026
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Feb 2, 2026 Last action Mar 27, 2026
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Full legislative history

Actions timeline

Total actions
6
Key actions
0
Committee
3
Mar 27, 2026
Committee
Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
lower
Mar 18, 2026
Committee
Assigned to Agriculture & Conservation Committee
lower
Feb 6, 2026
Committee
Referred to Rules Committee
lower
1 primary · 1 co-sponsor

Sponsors