IL SB1247

Amends the Herptiles-Herps Act to regulate protection, control, possession, and propagation of reptiles and amphibians in Illinois, replacing previous exemptions under the Fish and Aquatic Life Code with exclusive coverage under this Act.

Modifies possession limits for indigenous herptiles to a maximum of 4 per species and 8 total, with young of wild-caught gravid amphibians and reptiles required to be returned to the capture site; possession limits for common snapping turtles and bullfrogs set by administrative rule.

Establishes a new Herptile Endangered and Threatened Species Propagation permit allowing residents to possess, propagate, and sell legally obtained endangered and threatened herptiles, with fees deposited into the Wildlife Preservation Fund.

Creates Article 87 establishing procedures for investigating herptile diseases, pathogens, and fungi; allows the Department to confiscate diseased herptiles and establishes violation of disease treatment requirements as a Class C misdemeanor.

Revises criminal penalties, including creating a Class 3 felony for commercial possession of herptiles valued at $300 or more, and updates statute of limitations for prosecutions (3 years for felonies, 1 year 6 months for misdemeanors).