Bill On Mandatory Fines For Animal Fighting Clears Colorado Senate

DENVER (AP) - A Colorado bill to set mandatory fines for people convicted of animal fighting is headed to the governor's desk.

Animal fighting is not widespread in Colorado, with only two people in the state convicted of the crime during the past three years. But bill sponsors say the measure sends a message that animal fighting won't be condoned.

The Senate passed the measure Tuesday on a vote of 26-8. It has already passed the House.

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Animal fighting is already a felony in Colorado punishable by a $1,000 fine for a first offense, and $5,000 for a second offense. But levying those fines is at a judge's discretion. The bill would make those fines mandatory.

LINK: House Bill 1062

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