Bill > SB102

This bill amends Georgia law to comprehensively strengthen provisions against dogfighting and expand these provisions to include cockfighting. The bill defines key terms such as "dog," "game cock," "fighting related objects," and "minor," and establishes strict criminal penalties for engaging in animal fighting activities. Specifically, the legislation makes it a felony to own, possess, train, transport, or sell dogs or game cocks for fighting, to cause animals to fight or injure each other, to wager on fights, to knowingly permit fighting on one's property, or to advertise or charge admission for such fights. First-time offenders can face one to five years in prison and a fine of at least $5,000, with increased penalties for subsequent convictions. The bill also criminalizes being a spectator at such events, particularly if a minor is present, and introduces a new misdemeanor offense for possessing fighting-related objects. Additionally, the bill allows courts to prohibit convicted offenders from owning animals and makes conforming changes to other sections of Georgia law. The legislation maintains exceptions for legitimate animal activities such as hunting, livestock work, law enforcement, and pest control, ensuring that standard animal training and usage remain unaffected.

Justice

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/69979