IL HJR0061

Urges the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation to research identification and training programs for therapy dogs, particularly those designated for veterans.

Requests a report to the General Assembly on the feasibility of creating a state certification program for therapy dogs in Illinois.

References the Illinois Veteran Suicide Prevention Task Force findings that therapy dogs provide mental health benefits to veterans, including comfort, companionship, and a sense of purpose.

Notes existing programs in other states such as Tennessee's "Patriot Paws" and Chicago's "Valor" program, which provides an eight-week in-house training program for veterans and dogs.