Signed by Governor Chris Sununu

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that increases penalties to possess or manufacture animal fighting paraphernalia.

Highlights:

• Specifies that any individual who possesses, owns, buys, sells, transfers, or manufacturers animal fighting paraphernalia shall be guilty of a class B felony (Sec. 1).

• Defines “animal fighting paraphernalia” as equipment, products, implements, and materials of any kind that are used, intended to be used, or are designed for use in training, preparation, conditioning, or furtherance of animal fighting, such as the following, including (Sec. 2):

• Breaking sticks, cat mills, fighting pits, and springpoles;

• Unprescribed anabolic steroids, anti-inflammatory steroids, and antibiotics; or

• Treatment supplies, gaffs, slashers, heels, or any other sharp implement.

• Authorizes a court to consider any prior convictions under federal or state law relating to animal fighting (Sec. 2).

• Prohibits any individual convicted of animal fighting from owning or possessing any animal for a period of 5 years and specifies a fine of $1,000 for any individual found to have violated this provision (Sec. 2).

• Specifies that this act shall go into effect 90 days upon its passage (Sec. 3).

Full Bill Text