HI HCR217

Legislature supports recognition of cockfighting as a cultural activity with historical roots in American tradition, citing participation by George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Abraham Lincoln.

Hawaii game fowl breeders contribute an estimated $9,000,000 annually to the local economy through feed, supplies, shipping, and tournament expenses, subject to general excise taxes.

Proponents argue gamecocks are raised with better conditions than factory-farm chickens, given fresh air, sunshine, and space to move around, with breeding focused on bloodline quality over multiple generations.

Cockfighting is identified as a proud Hispanic tradition and legal activity in Mexico, with fighting described as a natural behavior rather than forced brutalization.

Directs transmission of certified copies of the resolution to the Governor and Mayor of each county.