HI HB108

Creates new offense of cruelty to animals by fighting dogs in the second degree, making it a class C felony to wager on dogfights or possess devices/bait dogs intended to train dogs for fighting.

Elevates cruelty to animals by fighting dogs in the first degree from a class C felony to a class B felony, and expands the definition to include knowingly causing, sponsoring, arranging, or holding dogfights, and owning or training dogs for dogfighting purposes.

Defines key terms including "dogfight" (dogs pitted against each other with intent to cause injury), "bait dog" (live animal used to train fighting dogs), "device" (animate or inanimate objects used in dog fighting), and "wager" (staking something of value on dogfight outcome).

Amends sections 711-1109.1, 711-1109.2, and 711-1110.5 to include the new second-degree offense in laws authorizing law enforcement to impound animals, authorize courts to forfeit animals, and allow reimbursement for animal care costs.

Effective January 7, 2059, with amendments to impoundment and forfeiture provisions not subject to repeal when related sections are reenacted July 1, 2015.