SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (CBS) – Illinois lawmakers passed a bill allowing miniature horses to be used as service animals.
Under a measure the House sent to Ill. Gov. Quinn Thursday night – the evening members were supposed to consider a cost-saving pension bill – people with disabilities could use miniature horses as service animals in public places, much like guide dogs are used.
The vote was near-unanimous. The small horses, which stand no higher than 32 inches, would be allowed in schools, stores, restaurants, and other public places – anywhere an assistance dog can go.
An overhaul of future state pension benefits for retired public employees was the centerpiece of the spring legislative session, but it collapsed late Thursday just before the deadline to adjourn. Illinois government has underfunded pensions by tens of billions of dollars.
