SPRINGFIELD – A Senate Resolution sponsored by State Senator Rachel Ventura would discourage the act of ‘bovine tailing,’ a popular practice seen at rodeos, and would make April 23, 2026 Animal Welfare Day.

“We must ensure all animals involved in rodeo events are treated in an ethical and humane manner, even as we respect the cultural significance of the rodeo for many members of the Illinois community,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “I’m proud of the important step the Illinois Senate has taken in protecting the welfare and dignity of the animals.”

Bovine tailing involves a participant grabbing the steer by the tail, wrapping the tail around the participant’s leg, and dragging the steer forcibly to the ground. This process can cause severe damage to the steer, including permanent injury and paralysis. Veterinary experts and animal welfare advocates agree that this practice is inhumane and unnecessary.  

“Senate Resolution 235 makes it clear that bovine tailing is both cruel and injurious to steers, bulls, and calves,” said Humane Farming Association (HFA) National Director Bradley Miller.  “We applaud the Illinois State Senate for advocating for awareness of cruelty to animals and passing this resolution.  We are gratified that Senator Ventura and the State Senate are taking action to prevent this ongoing abuse.”

The Humane Farming Association has roughly 300,000 members, many of whom reside in Illinois. 

The resolution has now been adopted by the Senate.