Bill > S591

This bill strengthens North Carolina's existing laws against animal fighting by introducing several key provisions. The legislation modifies existing statutes to increase penalties and expand criminal activities related to animal fighting, specifically for cockfighting and dog fighting. The bill changes the classification of animal fighting offenses from a Class I to a Class H felony and introduces new provisions that make it illegal to cause or allow minors under 18 to be present at animal fighting exhibitions. Additionally, the bill creates a new section defining "animal fighting paraphernalia" and makes possessing, buying, selling, or manufacturing such equipment with the intent to facilitate animal fighting a Class 1 misdemeanor. The new law provides a detailed list of what constitutes animal fighting paraphernalia, including items like breaking sticks, fighting pits, and sharp implements designed to enhance an animal's fighting capabilities. Courts will be allowed to consider multiple factors when determining whether an object is animal fighting paraphernalia, such as prior convictions, proximity to violations, and evidence of intent. The bill explicitly states that the law does not prohibit legitimate animal training activities, and it will become effective on December 1, 2025, applying to offenses committed on or after that date.

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/S591