A Bill to Prohibit Animal Fighting Ventures

The United States Senate has introduced a bill (S 1454) aimed at prohibiting animal fighting ventures and strengthening penalties for those involved in such activities. This legislation seeks to combat the cruel and inhumane treatment of animals used in these events.

Prohibited Activities

The bill prohibits various activities related to animal fighting, including:

• Hosting or participating in animal fights
• Manufacturing, distributing, or selling equipment used for animal fighting
• Providing financing or other support for animal fighting ventures
• Transporting animals for the purpose of animal fighting
• Receiving compensation or benefitting from the proceeds of animal fighting

Penalties for Violation

Those found guilty of violating this bill will face significant penalties, including:

1. Imprisonment for up to 10 years and a fine of up to $250,000 for individuals
2. Imprisonment for up to 20 years and a fine of up to $500,000 for organizations

Seizure of Property

Additionally, the bill allows for the seizure of all real property, including any right, title, and interest (including any leasehold interest) in the whole of any lot or tract of land and any appurtenances or improvements, used or intended to be used in any manner or part, to commit or facilitate a violation of subsection (a)(1).

State Law Preemption

The bill provides that the provisions of this Act shall not supersede or otherwise invalidate any State, local, or municipal legislation or ordinance relating to animal fighting ventures, except in case of a direct and irreconcilable conflict between any requirements thereunder and this Act or any rule, regulation, or standard hereunder.

Technical Corrections

The bill includes technical corrections, such as inserting "7 U.S.C. 2156" before "is nonmailable" in section 3001(a) of title 39, United States Code.