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A 897

Criminalizes knowingly causing a minor to attend a place where exhibition of animal fighting is being conducted

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Linda Rosenthal

Bill A 897 criminalizes allowing minors to attend animal fighting events, protecting youth from violence and promoting a safer environment while holding adults accountable.

REFERRED TO AGRICULTURE
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · A 897

Summary of Bill A 897

Bill Information

  • Bill Number: A 897
  • Title: Criminalizes knowingly causing a minor to attend a place where exhibition of animal fighting is being conducted
  • Status: Referred to Agriculture
  • Introduced: January 08, 2025
  • Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill A 897 aims to enhance the protection of minors by criminalizing the act of knowingly allowing or causing a minor to attend venues where animal fighting exhibitions occur. The bill seeks to address concerns regarding the exposure of children to violent and potentially harmful activities, promoting a safer environment for youth.

Key Provisions

  • Criminalization of Actions: The bill specifically makes it a criminal offense to knowingly cause a minor to attend any location where animal fighting is taking place.
  • Definition of Animal Fighting: While the bill does not provide a detailed definition within the provided text, animal fighting typically refers to organized fights between animals, such as dog fighting or cockfighting, which are illegal in many jurisdictions.
  • Penalties: The bill outlines potential penalties for individuals found guilty of this offense, although specific details regarding fines or imprisonment are not included in the summary.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Minors: The primary beneficiaries of this legislation are minors, who would be protected from exposure to animal fighting.
  • Adults and Guardians: Parents, guardians, or any adults who knowingly facilitate a minor's attendance at such events would be subject to legal repercussions.
  • Animal Welfare Advocates: Organizations and individuals advocating for animal rights and welfare may see this bill as a positive step toward reducing animal cruelty.

Procedural Aspects

  • Current Status: As of January 08, 2025, the bill has been referred to the Agriculture Committee for further consideration.
  • Related Legislation: The bill is part of a broader legislative context, with several related bills from prior sessions (A 944, A 9275, A 5048, A 955, A 1816, A 444) that may address similar issues or provide additional context for animal welfare and protection laws.

Conclusion

Bill A 897 represents a legislative effort to safeguard minors from the harmful effects of animal fighting. By criminalizing the act of knowingly allowing minors to attend such events, the bill aims to foster a more responsible and protective environment for youth while addressing issues of animal cruelty. Further developments will depend on the discussions and decisions made by the Agriculture Committee.

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

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