And, as you may already know, Governor Quinn also signed HB 4036 which takes effect immediately.  This amendment to the Animal Welfare Act requires that animal shelters and animal control facilities sterilize and microchip all animals adopted to new owners.  It also allows shelters and animal control facilities to adopt out dogs and cats that may be sick or injured if the problem is disclosed in writing to the adopter and the facility agrees to accept the animal if returned.  The amendment prohibits shelters from releasing animals to individuals representing another animal shelter or breed rescue unless the shelter holds a license or the individual has a foster care permit issued by the Department of Agriculture.  Individuals from other states must show proof that the rescue group they represent hold not-for-profit status.  To see all the changes, visit www.ilga.gov.