Cockfighting bill ceremoniously signed by Utah Governor
Gov. Herbert signs cockfighting felony bill in ceremony April 8, 2015
Utah Governor Gary R. Herbert formally signed the bill to make cockfighting a felony offense in Utah during an official ceremony in the Governor’s Office at the Utah State Capitol Wednesday, April 8, 2015.
Senate Bill 134, Game Fowl Fighting – Amendments sponsored by Sen. Gene Davis was modified to make cockfighting a misdemeanor on the first and second offense and a felony on the third.
After three years, the Humane Society of Utah believes this legislation is a step in the right direction to increase penalties for animal cruelty laws.
“We're glad this bloody, torturous activity is now a felony in Utah. This activity only leads to needless animal suffering,” said Gene Baierschmidt, executive director of the Humane Society of Utah. “We shouldn't tolerate any sort of intentional animal fighting for entertainment in our society."
The bill was officially signed by Gov. Herbert March 30, 2015 at the end of the 2015 Utah Legislative session.
