Creates the Companion Animal Custody Equity Act. Provides that in a possession dispute involving a companion animal, a court may consider the well-being of the companion animal regardless of the marital status of the parties. "Companion animal" means a domesticated dog or cat that resides in a household. Authorizes the court to issue temporary possession or caregiving orders, including limited visitation, if necessary to reduce stress or disruption to the companion animal. Provides that for companion animals 10 years of age or older, courts may give additional consideration to factors including continuity of environment, emotional stability, stress minimization, and maintenance of established routines. Provides that a court may, if appropriate, order mediation between the parties to resolve issues related to companion animal possession.
House Floor Amendment No. 1: Replaces everything after the enacting clause. Provides that the Act may be referred to as the Companion Animal Custody Equity Act. Amends the Replevin Article of the Code of Civil Procedure. Makes "companion animals" subject to the Replevin Article. Defines a "companion animal" to mean an animal that is commonly considered to be, or is considered by the owner to be, a pet. Provides that "companion animal" includes, but is not limited to, canines, felines, and equines. Provides that if a companion animal is the subject of an action of replevin, at the initiation and pendency of a dispute, a court, exercising discretion set forth in the new provisions, may issue temporary possession or caregiving orders, including limited visitation, if necessary to reduce stress or disruption to the companion animal. References current replevin law regarding exceptions to the requirement of notice. Provides criteria for judicial determinations in a possession dispute involving a companion animal.

Statutes affected:
Engrossed: 735 ILCS 5/19
Enrolled: 735 ILCS 5/19