The Illinois Senate on Wednesday approved a bill to ban horse slaughter for human consumption, and activists believe horse slaughter in the state will soon end.

Governor Rod Blagojevich supports the bill, which was approved in April by the state’s House of Representatives. If signed, the bill would force Cavel International in DeKalb, Illinois, to cease horse slaughter.

"Passage of this bill is a historical step for improving the welfare of America’s horses," said Society for Animal Protective Legislation Deputy Director Chris Heyde. "We are grateful for the leadership of Senator John Cullerton (D-Chicago), as well as Representative Bob Molaro (D-Chicago), Governor Blagojevich and the Illinois Department of Agriculture in finally putting an end to the practice in their state."