FIGHT Act of 2025

The Fighting Inhumane Gambling and High-Risk Trafficking (FIGHT) Act of 2025 aims to close enforcement gaps in existing federal laws against dogfighting and cockfighting. The bill would explicitly ban gambling on animal fighting ventures, including betting on live events or those shown via digital broadcasts. It also proposes to prohibit the use of the U.S. Postal Service or other interstate channels to transport mature roosters, a move intended to disrupt the supply chains of organized cockfighting rings.

If enacted, the legislation would provide new legal tools for both the government and private citizens. It would allow for the seizure of real property, such as land or buildings, used to host or facilitate animal fights. Additionally, the bill introduces a "citizen suit" provision, which would allow private individuals to sue suspected animal fighters in federal court after providing notice to authorities. This is intended to increase enforcement in areas where federal resources may be limited.

For everyday citizens, the bill would make it a federal violation to attend an animal fight or to bring a minor under the age of 16 to such an event. It also seeks to protect public health and the agricultural economy by reducing the spread of bird diseases, like avian flu, which are often carried by roosters trafficked for illegal fighting.