HB 5541

Abstract

Amends the Counties Code to eliminate a limitation on fines or penalties in excess of $50 for dogs running at large. Amends the Animal Control Act. Provides that a county board may appoint an Administrative Law Judge to conduct an administrative hearing to determine that a dog is vicious under the Act. Sets forth certain requirements for being an Administrative Law Judge. Authorizes an animal control officer or law enforcement officer who determines, upon investigation, that probable cause exists to believe a dog poses an immediate threat to public safety to seize and impound the dog. Sets forth certain provisions relating to a vicious dog determination by an Administrative Law Judge. Provides that in a court determination that a dog is vicious, the judge has the discretion to order that the vicious dog be euthanized. Sets forth that an owner of a dog that is impounded or found to be vicious has 35 days before that dog may be euthanized (now, 15 days). Requires the Department to establish and maintain an Internet website containing information on dogs declared vicious or dangerous. Authorizes the State's Attorney for the county in which the dog exists to file a complaint in the circuit court asking that the court declare a dog to be an uncontrollable vicious dog. Provides that a dog found to be an uncontrollable vicious dog by the circuit court shall be euthanized. Amends the Unified Code of Corrections. In a Section setting forth reasons to impose an extended term sentence, authorizes such an extension when a defendant commits any felony and the defendant used, possessed, exercised control over, or otherwise directed an animal to assault a law enforcement officer engaged in the execution of his or her official duties or in furtherance of the criminal activities of an organized gang in which the defendant is engaged. Effective immediately.