H.R.3946 - Fighting Inhumane Gambling and High-risk Trafficking Act of 2025; FIGHT Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.3946, also known as the FIGHT Act of 2025, aims to amend the Animal Welfare Act to provide greater protection for roosters and to combat animal fighting ventures. The bill specifically targets gambling on animal fights, the interstate transport of roosters for fighting purposes, and enhances enforcement mechanisms. It introduces civil citizen suits and expands seizure provisions related to animal fighting violations.
Expected Effects
The bill will likely lead to stricter enforcement against animal fighting, potentially reducing the prevalence of such activities. It will also empower citizens to take legal action against those involved in animal fighting ventures. The changes could affect individuals involved in animal fighting, gambling, and related activities.
Potential Benefits 4/5
- Reduces animal cruelty by targeting rooster fighting.
- Empowers citizens to take legal action against animal fighting ventures.
- Strengthens enforcement mechanisms against animal fighting.
- Potentially reduces crime associated with illegal gambling on animal fights.
- Reinforces ethical standards regarding animal welfare.
Potential Disadvantages
- May lead to increased litigation due to the allowance of civil citizen suits.
- Could disproportionately affect individuals in communities where rooster fighting is culturally significant.
- Potential for overreach in seizure provisions.
- Increased burden on the judicial system due to more lawsuits.
- Possible challenges in enforcing the law across different states and jurisdictions.
Constitutional Alignment 4/5
The bill aligns with the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8) by regulating interstate commerce related to animal fighting. The expansion of civil citizen suits could be seen as promoting access to justice, though potential due process concerns might arise depending on implementation. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights, such as freedom of speech or religion, and aims to promote the general welfare by reducing animal cruelty.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to citizens. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).