HB4540

Illinois HB4540 provides courts with guidance on resolving possession disputes involving companion animals.

Illinois HB4540, known as the Companion Animal Custody Equity Act, aims to provide courts with guidance when resolving possession disputes involving companion animals. The Act defines "companion animal" as a domesticated dog or cat residing in a household. It allows courts to consider the well-being of the animal regardless of the marital or legal status of the parties involved. Courts may evaluate factors such as history of caregiving responsibilities, feeding, grooming, veterinary, and training involvement, and financial contributions related to the animal's care.