3rd-graders take fight against puppy mills to Gov. Quinn

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WLS) -- Illinois Governor Pat Quinn signed new legislation proposed by three third-graders from Arlington Heights devoted to fighting puppy mills.

The new law increases penalties for violations of the Animal Welfare Act which makes it a crime to mistreat animals.

A first violation is more than doubled from $200 to $500. A second violation is doubled from $500 to $1000. And a third violation will result in a $2500 fine, in addition to a probationary status for the violator.

The bipartisan measure was created by students Claire Hackman, Brooke Martin and Maddie O'Dell of Patton Elementary School in Arlington Heights.

The law takes effect immediately.