Oklahoma voters banned the sport of cockfighting more than 20 years ago, but efforts to legalize or lessen penalties have resurfaced in recent years. A political action committee largely made up of cockfighters began pumping thousands of dollars into lawmaker coffers a few years ago, which helped allow some bills to receive a hearing and minimal support. Even Gov. Kevin Stitt publicly praised the organization two years ago amidst its push to pass new laws. This year, Senate Bill 111 would have reduced the penalties for participating in cockfighting. The Senate Public Safety Committee narrowly voted (3 to 4) to reject the bill. The fact that cockfighting remains a topic of discussion within the Legislature and governor’s office is an embarrassment. But it’s proof that if enough money is spent, Oklahoma lawmakers are willing to consider almost anything.
This article appears in OKC Ballet Shorts.
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