AL HB74

Elevates cockfighting violations from fines of $20-$50 to Class A misdemeanor (first conviction) and Class C felony (second or subsequent conviction) for activities including selling, training, fighting cocks, owning facilities, possessing fighting devices, wagering, or employing persons at cockfighting venues.

Makes it a Class A misdemeanor to knowingly attend cockfighting preparations or exhibitions as a spectator or to knowingly aid and abet others in cockfighting.

Imposes additional penalties including fines of $10,000 for Class A misdemeanor and $20,000 for Class C felony convictions, plus forfeiture of all profits and property used to facilitate cockfighting.

Requires persons who regularly keep cocks to register locations with the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries for disease control purposes.

Establishes procedures for confiscation, testing, and destruction of fighting cocks, with condemnation hearings required within 30 days and expenses taxed against the owner; provides veterinarians and animal shelters immunity from civil or criminal liability for actions taken in good faith.