Am. Sub. H.B. 108 Summary

• Expands the definition of "fighting animal" to include roosters used in cockfighting, in addition to dogs used in dogfighting, allowing peace officers to seize both types of animals involved in violations.

• Authorizes peace officers to confiscate equipment and devices used in training roosters for cockfighting or as part of cockfighting activities.

• Elevates cockfighting violations under section 959.15 from misdemeanor to felony charges: felony of the fifth degree for first offense and felony of the third degree for subsequent offenses.

• Requires that proceeds from confiscated and forfeited cockfighting-related equipment, devices, and cash first cover animal shelter costs for caring for or euthanizing roosters involved in offenses, with remaining funds transferred to local 4-H youth development programs for educational purposes.

• Applies existing seizure, impoundment, and disposition procedures from dogfighting laws to cockfighting cases involving roosters.