Animal-rights groups have uncovered a disturbing effort to decriminalize cockfighting in Arkansas. Animal Wellness Action conducted a months-long investigation and revealed that state Sen. Terry Rice and state Rep. Justin Gonzales plan to introduce legislation to weaken penalties for cockfighting in 2025. Animal Wellness Action called on all Arkansans to oppose this potential move, emphasizing that cockfighting is a cruel and inhumane practice.
Upon reaching out to Gonzales and Rice for comment, Rice denied filing any bills related to cockfighting and stated that he has not seen such legislation. However, Animal Wellness Action alleges that lobbyist Suzanna Watt has been hired to help push the legislation through. Watt, associated with the Arkansas Gamefowl Commission founded by renowned cockfighter John Slavin, has confirmed her involvement.
Animal Wellness Action’s investigation included leaked recordings, drone footage, and social media evidence of individuals advocating for weaker animal fighting laws. They highlighted the potential negative impact of decriminalizing cockfighting, stating that it could make Arkansas a national hub for this illegal activity.
To combat such efforts, Animal Wellness Action is working to pass the bipartisan FIGHT Act in Congress, which would strengthen federal laws against animal fighting. Pacell emphasized that these operations are linked to criminal activities like drug trafficking and that law enforcement agencies support efforts to crack down on animal fighting. As of now, no bill has been filed to decriminalize cockfighting in Arkansas, but advocates urge the public to oppose any such legislation.
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