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Poll Questions on Animal Welfare and Public Safety in Illinois

Dear Community,

We are seeking your input as we consider drafting a new law to enhance animal welfare in Illinois. Recently, a concerned constituent brought to our attention the pressing issue of animal abuse in our state and highlighted the need for stronger measures to protect vulnerable animals.

As we explore potential legislation, we want to ensure your voice is heard in this important discussion. To that end, we have created this poll to gauge public opinion on key topics in animal welfare and criminal justice reform. Your feedback will be invaluable in shaping a bill that reflects our community’s values and concerns, helping us create a safer, more humane environment for all animals. Thank you for taking the time to participate.

La Shawn K. Ford

IL State RepresenTative, Eighth District

Poll Question #1

Should individuals accused of abuse (including animal, domestic, child, or elder abuse) have the option to use home confinement and electronic monitoring instead of jail while their case is pending?

Please select the option that most accurately reflects your opinion and vote accordingly.

Yes, allow electronic monitoring or home confinement instead of jail while the case is pending.

No, individuals accused of abuse should remain in jail while their case is pending.

Unsure. I need more information on this issue before forming an opinion.

Poll Question #2

If a person spends time on court-ordered electronic home monitoring before trial and is later convicted, should that time count toward their final sentence?

Please select the option that most accurately reflects your opinion and vote accordingly.

Yes, electronic monitoring time should count toward the final sentence.

No, time spent on electronic home monitoring should not count toward the final sentence.

Unsure. I need more information on this issue before forming an opinion.

Poll Question #3

Should Illinois establish a public, statewide registry of individuals convicted of animal abuse?

Please select the option that most accurately reflects your opinion and vote accordingly.

Yes, Illinois should create a public animal abuse registry.

No, Illinois should not create an animal abuse registry.

Unsure. I need more information on this issue before forming an opinion.

Yesterday's Animal Welfare Poll Results

Should individuals accused of abuse (including animal, domestic, child, or elder abuse) have the option to use home confinement and electronic monitoring instead of jail while

their case is pending?

If a person spends time on court-ordered electronic home monitoring before trial and is later convicted, should that time count toward their final sentence?

Should Illinois establish a public, statewide registry of individuals convicted of animal abuse?

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In Loving Memory of Dolly Parton

January 19, 1946 – August 25, 2026

Yesterday's Dolly Parton Poll Question Results

Which of Dolly Parton’s contributions or actions in support of the Black community do you find most commendable?

Rep. Ford's Track Record

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Quote of the Day

“I am in favor of animal rights as well as human rights. That is the way of a whole human being.”

-Abraham Lincoln, 16th U.S. President

On This Day in History

August 27, 2007

History Reports

May 27, 2026

NFL star Michael Vick pleads guilty in dogfighting case

On August 27, 2007, Michael Vick, a star quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons, formally pleads guilty before a Richmond, Virginia, judge to a federal felony charge related to running a dogfighting ring. That December, the 27-year-old Vick, once the highest-paid player in the NFL, was sentenced to 23 months in federal prison.

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Animal Legal Defense Fund Reports

August 25, 2017

Case Study: Animal Fighting – Michael Vick

The exposure of Bad Newz Kennels helped alert the nation to the viciousness of dogfighting that is commonplace in many communities despite the fact that dogfighting is outlawed in every state and, to some extent, by the federal government. To read about new laws and tougher penalties that have been enacted in the wake of the Vick case, see the Animal Legal Defense Fund’s Animal Fighting Facts.

The Michael Vick case illustrates many attributes common to the dozens of organized dogfighting cases the Animal Legal Defense Fund has seen over the years:

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Michael Vick Goes to Jail for Dogfighting | Mike Vick: A Football Life | NFL Films

Michael Vick on why he financed a

dogfighting ring

Rep. Ford's Poll Questions

Poll Question #1

What aspect of Michael Vick’s dogfighting case shocked you the most?

Please select the option that most accurately reflects your opinion and vote accordingly.

The discovery of dozens of neglected pit bulls at his property.

The reports of dogs being killed when they underperformed in fights.

That the operation had reportedly existed for about five years.

That a professional athlete was involved in financing the operation.

All of the above

Poll Question #2

How do you think Michael Vick’s actions should have affected his NFL career?

Please select the option that most accurately reflects your opinion and vote accordingly.

He should have been permanently banned from professional football.

He should have faced a lengthy suspension before being allowed to return.

He deserved a chance to return after serving his prison sentence.

His football career should have been judged separately from his criminal conduct.

All of the above

Yesterday's Poll Results

What do you think was the most significant achievement of the women’s suffrage movement?

Did you know the fight for women’s voting rights lasted more than 70 years?

Knowing History Spotlight Moment

August 27, 2026

1776

British forces defeat Patriots in the Battle of Brooklyn

1875

Tycoon William Ralston drowns

1883

Krakatoa explodes with massive force

1908

Lyndon B. Johnson is born

1916

Romania enters World War I

1967

Beatles manager Brian Epstein dies

1976

Transgender athlete Renée Richards barred from U.S. Open

1979

Lord Mountbatten killed by IRA

2007

NFL star Michael Vick pleads guilty in dogfighting case

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The Oak Park Police and Fire Department is Hiring!

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Things You Should Know

Key Illinois Facts and Important Terms Every American Should Understand

Key Facts Every Illinoisan Should Know

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Resources for Nonprofit Organizations

Tools, Funding, and Support to Strengthen Your Mission

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Non-Profit Organizations Statewide

It's National Breastfeeding Month

National Today Reports

National Breastfeeding Month dedicates every August to raising awareness about the profound health benefits of breastfeeding for both infants and mothers. This annual observance promotes education, support, and advocacy for lactation. Join the conversation, share your stories, and support policies that empower breastfeeding families.

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What does a lactation consultant do?

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Account Technician I

Job Requisition ID: 57499

Opening Date: 08/20/2026

Closing Date: 09/03/2026

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Job Highlights 8/24/2026

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Eighth District Community

Explore Local Small Businesses Through the Eighth District Chamber of Commerce

Despite losing 9.1 million jobs in the first two quarters of 2020, small businesses job growth rebounded swiftly following the COVID-19 recession. In the four quarters following, small businesses have gained 5.5 million jobs, making up for 60 percent of the decline during the early pandemic.

Small businesses have generated 12.9 million net new jobs over the past 25 years, accounting for two out of every three jobs added to the economy. For more, read Advocacy’s latest fact sheet, “Small Business Job Creation”.