Illinois Governor Pat Quinn signed legislation this week expanding the responsibilities of the Advisory Board of Livestock Commissioners in order to ensure the well-being of poultry and domestic animals.

 “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,” Quinn said in a news release.

Under Illinois Senate Bill 3604, effective immediately, the Advisory Board of Livestock Commissioners will 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 Illinois Department of Agriculture will now be required to submit rules and regulations involving animal welfare issues that the board previously did not oversee. 

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 new law also gives the governor authority to replace inactive board members.

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