HB 4540 Passed. Now, bring Rosie home.
Justice for Rosie successfully advocated for HB 4540, which passed both chambers of the Illinois General Assembly. Dr. Tameer Siddiqui is available for interviews on the bill's passage, the legal gap it closes, and the continuing fight to bring Rosie home.
Connect with Dr. Siddiqui about HB 4540's passage
Dr. Tameer Siddiqui is available for interviews, podcasts, and editorial commentary on HB 4540's passage through both chambers of the Illinois General Assembly, the legal gap the bill closes, and what comes next for companion animal custody equity.
Why journalists covered HB 4540
Four compelling angles explain how Justice for Rosie reshaped animal custody law and protected primary caregivers from coercive control.
The legal gap — now closed
Illinois law treated pets as property. HB 4540, now passed, requires courts to evaluate caregiving involvement, financial responsibility, and the animal's emotional wellbeing.
Coercive control
Pet custody disputes often involve coercive control tactics. Justice for Rosie protects primary caregivers by centering the animal's stability and emotional bonds in custody decisions.
PTSD service animals
Service animals provide critical mental health support. HB 4540 safeguards these therapeutic bonds by recognizing caregiving relationships in legal disputes.
A national first
Chicago-based Justice for Rosie successfully passed a legislative framework other states can adopt. Illinois is now the first state to extend companion animal wellbeing standards to unmarried partners in civil disputes.
Questions about HB 4540?
Find answers to common questions journalists ask about the legislation, the initiative, and how to cover this story.
Request a press kit or schedule an interview
Get comprehensive resources on HB 4540's passage and Justice for Rosie. Dr. Tameer Siddiqui is available for interviews, podcasts, and editorial commentary on the bill's journey through the legislature and what comes next.