This bill amends several sections of the Oklahoma Statutes related to cockfighting, specifically 21 O.S. 2021, Sections 1692.1, 1692.2, 1692.3, 1692.4, and 1692.8. Key changes include the modification of the definition of cockfighting to include fights between birds fitted with artificial spurs, knives, or gaffs, and the reduction of penalties for certain offenses from felonies to misdemeanors. The bill also introduces new punishments for additional offenses, such as refereeing a cockfight, and updates statutory references. Furthermore, it repeals Sections 1692.5, 1692.6, and 1692.7, which pertained to criminal offenses and asset forfeitures related to cockfighting violations.

The penalties for violations of the amended sections are now classified as misdemeanors, with specific fines and imprisonment terms outlined for first, second, and subsequent offenses. For instance, a first conviction may result in a fine of up to $500, while a third conviction could lead to felony charges with imprisonment of up to two years and fines starting at $5,000. The bill is set to take effect on November 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 21-1692.5, 21-1692.6, 21-1692.7