Bill would let citizens sue over cockfighting and seize related property
In committeeS. 1454Latest action
Sponsor: John Kennedy · Senator · LA
AIDecoded by AI · checked against the recordRead the official text
Official title: FIGHT Act of 2025
119th Congress
Topics: Environment & energy
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
The plain-language version comes first. The official text is always the reference.
The FIGHT Act of 2025 strengthens federal penalties and enforcement against cockfighting and animal fighting.
40-second read · 5 questions answered below
What does this do?
S. 1454 amends the Animal Welfare Act to define "rooster," ban gambling on animal fights in person or by broadcast, and outlaw shipping roosters via mail or interstate carriers for fighting. It also lets private citizens sue suspected violators and allows government seizure of property linked to organizing animal fights.
Who does it affect?
The bill affects organizers, attendees, and gamblers at animal fighting events, plus rooster breeders and shippers. Federal and state authorities and private citizens would gain new enforcement powers.
Why does it matter?
The changes close loopholes that let roosters be shipped for illegal fights, especially in Puerto Rico and Guam, and expand who can pursue violators. People uninvolved in animal fighting would see no direct effect.
What does it cost, and who pays?
- Fines up to $5,000 per violation
- Citizens must wait 60 days to sue
- No suit if govt already pursuing case
AI-drafted summary. Check it against the official text before you act on it.
Read the official bill on Congress.govMake the call
Where does it stand?
- IntroducedApr 10, 2025
- Senate committeeYou are here · Apr 10, 2025
- Senate vote
- House
- The president's desk
Right now: a Senate committee is reviewing it. If the House changes it, it goes back to the Senate before reaching the president.
Latest action: — Read twice and referred to the Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry.