Ensign Applauds Passage of Animal Fighting Bill

Press Release

ENSIGN APPLAUDS PASSAGE OF ANIMAL FIGHTING BILL

Senator John Ensign was a lead sponsor of the Animal Fighting Prohibition Enforcement Act which passed the Senate last night. The legislation makes it a felony to transport animals across state lines for the purpose of fighting, attempting to end this grotesque practice. Federal anti-fighting legislation is currently in place, but this legislation will give law enforcement more effective tools to end this cruel practice.

"Animal fighting is a barbaric form of entertainment that not only is harmful and deadly to animals but also poses many health and safety risks to communities where it is taking place," said Ensign, a veterinarian before being elected to Congress. "Often, individuals associated with this deplorable practice are involved in narcotics trafficking, gang activity, violence toward people and illegal gambling."

Fifty states currently have laws against dogfighting and forty-nine have laws against cockfighting. This bill complements these state laws. The legislation makes transporting animals for fighting across state lines for fighting a felony and gives law enforcement greater ability to crack down on the practice. The bill was supported by The National Sheriffs' Association, American Veterinary Medical Association and all animal protection organizations.

"These horrible displays of cruelty have too many risks associated with them," Ensign said. "Cockfighting is a pathway to bird flu, and all animals that actually live through the events are often riddled with infections and disease that can spread to other animals, and even humans. The disturbing practice of animal fighting must end, and this bill should help bring a stop to it."

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