Amends the Criminal Code of 2012. Provides that the statute prohibiting elephants from performing in traveling animal acts applies to "covered animals" rather than just elephants. Defines "covered animal" as any of the following animals, and hybrids of those animals: (1) elephantidae; (2) felidae, but excluding a domestic cat; (3) non-human primate; or (4) ursidae. Provides that the provisions of the amendatory Act are in addition to, and not in lieu of, any other laws protecting animal welfare. Provides that the provisions may not be construed to limit any State law or rules protecting the welfare of animals or to prevent a unit of local government from adopting and enforcing its own animal welfare ordinances and regulations. Contains a severability provision. Effective July 1, 2026.
House Floor Amendment No. 1: Replaces everything after the enacting clause. Reinstates the provisions of the introduced bill, except changes the definition of "covered animal" to include: (1) cougar (puma concolor); (2) jaguar (panthera onca); (3) leopard (panthera pardus), excluding Amur leopard (panthera pardus orientalis); (4) lion (panthera leo); and (5) tiger (panthera tigris). Eliminates from the definition of "covered animal" felidae. Changes the exemptions from a violation of the provisions to a performance of a covered animal that: (1) takes place at a non-mobile, permanent institution, or other fixed facility licensed by the United States Department of Agriculture; and (2) is conducted by the non-mobile, permanent institution, or fixed facility. Effective July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 720 ILCS 5/48
Engrossed: 720 ILCS 5/48
Enrolled: 720 ILCS 5/48