Cockfighting ban passed the House 49-20!

On Thursday March 8th, the New Mexico House of Representatives passed SB10, the bill to ban cockfighting, by a vote of 49-20! In addition to all those who supported the ban, Animal Protection Voters wishes to especially thank those members of the House who spoke in support of the bill including Rep. Al Park, Rep. Peter Wirth, Rep. Bill Rehm, Rep. Jeff Steinborn, Rep. Antonio Lujan and Rep. Gail Chasey. There was an unsuccessful attempt to pass an amendment to add a $500,000 appropriation to the measure–such a move would have doomed the bill by sending it to the House Appropriations and Finance Committee. The bill now heads back to the Senate for its final vote: concurrence on a technical amendment.

We would like to extend our deepest thanks to all those who have worked on the cockfighting ban for many years. For a long time, the vast majority of New Mexicans have recognized cockfighting for what it is: intentional cruelty to animals. In 2007, the state legislature has affirmed that New Mexico no longer condones intentionally maiming and killing animals for fun and gambling entertainment. On behalf of New Mexico’s roosters, Animal Protection Voters thanks you!