Illinois Traveling Animal Act

The Problem

In 2018, the Illinois Traveling Animal Act was signed into law prohibiting elephants from being transported across Illinois for performances. This was a great first step, but numerous species are impacted by circuses, fairs, trade shows and more.

Now, there is a proposed amendment (HB4255) that would amend this bill to include primates, non-domestic cats such as lions and tigers, and bears. This would be a huge win for animal welfare and we need your help!

The animals in traveling acts often do not have adequate care, housing, or training and are subject to prolonged confinement and forced performances, but you can make a difference.

How To Help

Contact your Illinois legislators

Find your State Representative and Senator here by typing your address in the Find My Legislator box and contact their offices.
Sample email language:

As your constituent and a supporter of Lincoln Park Zoo, I urge you to support and cosponsor SB2747/HB 4255 to protect both animals and public safety. This legislation would prohibit the use of wild cats, bears, and nonhuman primates in traveling acts in Illinois including circuses, trade shows, fairs, etc.

These species require specific, expert care including appropriate housing, social groupings, diets, habitats, and more. Animals on the road are often subject to neglect including prolonged confinement and forced performances. Exhibits and performances with these animals also put the public at risk for contact, injury, or disease.

Please support this amendment to the Illinois Traveling Animal Act for the wellbeing of animals and safety of Illinoisans.

[Signature]

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