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Animal fighting is one of the most brutal forms of cruelty, and it is still happening across the country, including here in New England. These organized crimes aren’t just about abusing animals — they are often linked to narcotics, weapons trafficking, illegal gambling, and other serious public safety threats. That’s why we need strong federal laws to shut them down.
The bipartisan Fighting Inhumane Gambling and High-Risk Trafficking (FIGHT) Act (H.R.3946/S.1454) would give law enforcement the tools they need to crack down on dogfighting and cockfighting rings. The bill strengthens penalties, bans the shipping of roosters through the U.S. mail, and enhances coordination between federal, state, and local authorities.
Last session, every member of Maine’s congressional delegation cosponsored the FIGHT Act. We’re grateful that Rep. Chellie Pingree and Sen. Susan Collins have already signed on again this Congress, and we urge Sen. Angus King and Rep. Jared Golden to join them.
Maine residents can help. Please thank Pingree and Collins for their leadership, and contact King and Golden to urge them to cosponsor the FIGHT Act. Together, we can protect vulnerable animals, safeguard our neighborhoods, and ensure Maine remains a leader in compassion and public safety.
Local organizations may also endorse the FIGHT Act on our Maine page at: animalwellnessaction.org/maine.
Gina Garey
Maine state director
Animal Wellness Action
Portland
