The proposed bill, titled the "Game Fowl Farm Registration and Preservation Act," aims to establish a regulatory framework for game fowl farms in Arkansas. It introduces a registration requirement for game fowl farms, mandating that owners register every two years with the Arkansas Livestock and Poultry Commission at no cost, regardless of flock size. The bill emphasizes the importance of distinguishing lawful game fowl breeding from unlawful rooster fighting, which it defines as a new offense. Additionally, it includes provisions for mandatory disease testing every two years to protect public health and the poultry industry from diseases such as avian influenza and Virulent Newcastle disease.

The bill also amends the definition of "animal fighting" to clarify that it does not include lawful game fowl breeding or exhibition activities. It establishes penalties for unlawful rooster fighting, categorizing it into first and second-degree offenses, with corresponding fines and potential civil penalties for non-compliance with registration and testing requirements. An emergency clause is included, highlighting the urgent need for this regulatory framework to safeguard public health and the economic stability of Arkansas's poultry sector.

Statutes affected:
Old version HB1611 V2 - 3-10-2025 11:03 AM: 5-62-120(f)
Old version HB1611 V3 - 3-19-2025 02:30 PM: 5-62-120(f)
Old version HB1611 Original - 2-27-2025 12:46 PM: 5-62-120(f)
HB 1611: 5-62-120(f)