Welcome to Senator Linda Holmes legislative website

Illinois protects wild animals from exploitation in abusive roadside “zoos,” thanks to Holmes’ new law

SPRINGFIELD –State Senator Linda Holmes maintains her ongoing commitment to lead legislation to restrict owners of traveling animal acts from using wild animals in their shows. Her latest measure adding specific breeds to the list of banned species was signed into law Friday.

“These animals spend most of their lives in cramped, soiled cages, in severe and chronic stress,” Holmes (D-Aurora) said. “Extended periods in confinement and forced training to perform dangerous stunts are frightening and unnatural for them. In 2017, I passed legislation banning the use of elephants in circuses and other traveling exhibitions that do not provide adequate living conditions, and we’ve added more species to the ban over the years.”

House Bill 4255 adds specific breeds to the offense of unlawful use of animals in traveling acts to include cougars, jaguars, leopards, lions, tigers, non-human primates, bears, and all elephants, not just endangered species. It also adds any hybrids of these animals. Anyone knowingly using a covered animal is committing a Class A misdemeanor.

According to Humane World for Animals (formerly known as the Humane Society), some operators charge premiums to let visitors feed, pet, hold, play with or ride the animals. It’s no surprise dangerous animal incidents are on the rise across the United States. Animals used for public handling are typically pulled from their mothers shortly after birth to be hand-raised, a practice that denies newborns critical maternal care. Baby animals with weak immune systems are subjected to stress, neglect, and mistreatment associated with public handling.

“Wild animals are not trick machines,” Holmes said. “Out-of-state exhibitors can’t profit in Illinois from abusing wild animals anymore. Families planning to enjoy county fair and festival season this summer won’t be confronted by these upsetting acts anymore.”

House Bill 4255 was signed by the governor on Friday. It takes effect on July 1, 2026.

Sen. Holmes releases statement on her retirement from the Illinois State Senate

• Retirement

AURORA – State Senator Linda Holmes (D-Aurora) released the following statement announcing her retirement from the Illinois State Senate:

“After 20 years of serving the people of Illinois’ 42nd District, I have made the difficult decision to retire from the Illinois State Senate at the end of my current term.

“Living with Multiple Sclerosis for the past 37 years has shaped my perspective and strengthened my commitment to public service. While I have been fortunate to manage this disease for many years with few symptoms, it is now time for me to slow down and focus on my health. 

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Holmes: Budget is responsible, balanced and keeps Illinois moving forward

• Fiscal Year 2027 Budget

SPRINGFIELD – Following the Senate’s approval of the Fiscal Year 2027 state budget, State Senator Linda Holmes (D-Aurora) released the following statement:

“This budget reflects a balanced approach to governing – protecting critical investments while maintaining fiscal discipline. By preserving the Local Government Distributive Fund revenues, we are helping communities continue providing the services residents count on while supporting long-term financial stability for local governments.

“This budget also demonstrates our commitment to fiscal responsibility. By continuing to fully fund our pension obligations, we are keeping promises made to state employees while maintaining a balanced and sustainable financial plan for the future.

“I commend my colleagues in both chambers for working together to pass a budget that reflects our values, supports our communities and keeps Illinois moving forward.”

Holmes measure to strengthen unemployment insurance system passes Senate

• Unemployment Insurance
• Assist Workers in Layoffs or Shutdowns
• Connect Workers with Resources
• SB807

SPRINGFIELD – As workers and employers continue to navigate economic uncertainty, State Senator Linda Holmes advanced legislation to strengthen Illinois’ unemployment insurance system by protecting benefits, delaying planned contribution increases and helping workers access assistance faster after a mass layoff.

“Workers and employers alike benefit from stability and predictability,” said Holmes (D-Aurora). “This legislation reflects a collaborative approach that protects working families and individuals when they need it most, ensuring they have a sense of security during a major life change.”

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