Illinois lawmakers have approved a bill that would prohibit insurance companies from charging higher rates to homeowners based upon the breed of dog they own.
Democratic Representative Rita Mayfield says insurance companies are often basing those rates on “outdated and biased beliefs” about the dangers posed by certain dog breeds.
She says no family should have to absorb much higher costs or be forced to give up a treasured family pet because, “a bean counter doesn’t like them.”
The bill would still allow insurance companies to deny or modify coverage when it can be shown that a specific dog poses a demonstrable risk.
The bill has passed the Illinois House and Senate and now heads to Governor JB Pritzker’s desk.
