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Bill

A 1816

Adds animal fighting to the definition of criminal activity for purposes of enterprise corruption crimes

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Alex Bores and 19 co-sponsors

Bill A 1816 classifies animal fighting as a criminal activity under enterprise corruption, imposing stricter penalties to deter cruelty and enhance law enforcement efforts.

REFERRED TO CODES
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · A 1816

Summary of Bill A 1816

Bill Overview

  • Bill Number: A 1816
  • Title: Adds animal fighting to the definition of criminal activity for purposes of enterprise corruption crimes
  • Status: REPORTED REFERRED TO RULES
  • Introduced: January 14, 2025
  • Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of Bill A 1816 is to enhance the legal framework surrounding enterprise corruption by explicitly including animal fighting as a criminal activity. This addition aims to strengthen the enforcement of laws against organized crime related to animal fighting, which is often linked to broader criminal enterprises.

Key Provisions

  • Inclusion of Animal Fighting: The bill amends existing legislation to classify animal fighting as a criminal activity under the enterprise corruption statute. This means that individuals or groups involved in organizing, promoting, or participating in animal fighting can be prosecuted under more severe penalties associated with enterprise corruption crimes.

  • Enhanced Penalties: By categorizing animal fighting within the realm of enterprise corruption, the bill seeks to impose stricter penalties on offenders, thereby deterring such activities and addressing the associated cruelty to animals.

Affected Parties

  • Animal Welfare Advocates: Organizations and individuals advocating for animal rights and welfare would likely support this bill, as it aims to protect animals from cruelty associated with fighting.

  • Law Enforcement Agencies: The bill would provide law enforcement with additional tools to combat organized crime linked to animal fighting, potentially leading to more effective investigations and prosecutions.

  • Individuals Involved in Animal Fighting: Those who engage in or facilitate animal fighting would face increased legal consequences under this legislation.

Legislative Timeline

  • January 14, 2025: Bill A 1816 was introduced and referred to the Codes Committee for review.
  • May 28, 2025: The bill was reported and referred to the Rules Committee, indicating progress in the legislative process.

Related Legislation

  • A 7303: A prior-session bill that may have addressed similar issues related to animal fighting or enterprise corruption.
  • S 3158: A companion bill in the Senate that aligns with the objectives of A 1816, potentially facilitating a coordinated legislative approach to this issue.

Conclusion

Bill A 1816 represents a significant step towards addressing the issue of animal fighting within the context of organized crime. By including animal fighting in the definition of criminal activity for enterprise corruption, the bill aims to enhance legal protections for animals and strengthen the ability of law enforcement to combat related criminal enterprises.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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