Springfield, IL…. State Representative Tom Weber (R-Fox Lake) saw important legislation he sponsored pass the Illinois General Assembly with unanimous support on the final day of the spring legislative session. House Bill 3140 creates the Care for Retired Police Dogs Program Act to provide a stable funding source for the veterinary care of retired police dogs.
“Police dogs dedicate their lives to protecting our communities, assisting in law enforcement operations, and ensuring public safety,” said Representative Weber. “This bill ensures that financial hurdles don’t prevent K9 families from giving these officers the care they deserve.”
Once retired, the K9 becomes a permanent member of the handler’s family. However, all the costs of care fall onto the handler, even if such costs are a result of injuries while on duty. The bill creates the Illinois Police K9 Care Fund, where vehicle owners can voluntarily select the Secretary of State’s special plate, Illinois Police K9 Memorial. For the license plates to be created, a minimum of 2,000 applications is required. Interested applicants can access the form at RepWeber.com.
“I’d like to thank the Illinois State Police and Senator Harris III, for their partnership in getting this passed,” said Weber. “We will be advocating for people to support these retired K9 officers to guarantee this fund becomes a reality.
“I look forward to seeing many K9 Memorial Plates on my way to the State Capitol.”
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State Representative Tom Weber represents the 64th District, which includes portions of Lake and McHenry Counties. For more information, please visit RepWeber.com or contact Rep. Weber’s district office at 847-629-5439.