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HB 1326

Crimes and punishment; cockfighting exemptions; cockfighting with a robot; effective date.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Justin Humphrey

HB 1326 creates exemptions to Oklahoma's cockfighting prohibitions, potentially including "robot cockfighting," reversing decades of criminal law restricting the practice.

Second Reading referred to Rules
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1326

Legislative bill overview

HB 1326 proposes to create exemptions to Oklahoma's cockfighting laws, specifically addressing "cockfighting with a robot." The bill would modify existing criminal statutes related to cockfighting, though the exact scope of exemptions is not detailed in the available summary. This represents a significant shift from current Oklahoma law, which prohibits cockfighting entirely.

Why is this important

Cockfighting is currently a felony in Oklahoma and all 50 U.S. states, as well as being illegal under federal law. Any exemptions or modifications to these prohibitions would represent a major policy reversal with implications for animal welfare enforcement, potential legal conflicts with federal law, and the state's criminal code architecture. The bill's reference to "robot" cockfighting suggests an attempt to create a technical loophole, which raises questions about legislative intent and enforceability.

Potential points of contention

  • Animal welfare concerns: Even if framed as "robot" cockfighting, critics argue the bill signals weakening enforcement against traditional cockfighting, which involves animal cruelty and is linked to other criminal activity and gambling.
  • Federal law conflict: Cockfighting violates federal law (18 U.S.C. § 49), and state exemptions may create jurisdictional and enforcement conflicts that could expose Oklahoma to legal challenges.
  • Definitional ambiguity: The term "cockfighting with a robot" is vague and could create enforcement difficulties, loopholes for illegal activities, or unintended legal consequences depending on how courts interpret the exemption.

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

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