The proposed legislation, known as 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 act emphasizes the importance of distinguishing lawful game fowl breeding from unlawful rooster fighting, which is defined as a criminal offense under the new law. The act also 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.

Additionally, the bill 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. The act declares an emergency, highlighting the urgent need for regulatory measures to safeguard Arkansas's poultry industry and public health, and it will take effect immediately upon approval by the Governor or after the veto period.

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)