Texas Bill Aims to Disrupt Illegal Cockfighting by Cutting Off Rooster Supply

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  Automotive and Transportation on Wed, Feb 11th, 2026 by Dallas Morning News
      Locale: UNITED STATES

Austin, Texas - February 11th, 2026 - A Texas lawmaker is spearheading an innovative approach to combat the deeply entrenched illegal cockfighting industry: cutting off its supply line. State Representative Gary Gates (D-Corpus Christi) has filed House Bill 981, a measure poised to prohibit the air transport of roosters to and from Texas. The bill, currently awaiting review by the House committee, seeks to disrupt the interstate movement of birds specifically bred for the brutal and illegal bloodsport.

For years, law enforcement and animal welfare advocates have struggled to effectively dismantle cockfighting rings within the state. While Texas law explicitly outlaws cockfighting, the industry has proven remarkably resilient, often circumventing local regulations by sourcing roosters from states with weaker enforcement or, in some cases, no laws against the practice. The ease with which birds can be shipped across state lines, particularly via air freight, has allowed operators to quickly replenish their fighting stock and evade prosecution.

"We've been addressing the symptoms of cockfighting - the fights themselves - for years, but we haven't been effectively tackling the root cause: the continuous influx of specially bred roosters," explained Rep. Gates. "This bill isn't about impacting legitimate poultry farming; it's about closing a specific, exploitable loophole that allows this cruel activity to continue."

The impetus behind HB 981 stems from a growing awareness that traditional enforcement methods, such as raids on cockfighting arenas and prosecution of participants, have had limited long-term impact. While these actions undoubtedly disrupt individual events, the industry rapidly adapts by relocating operations and acquiring new birds. By targeting the transportation of roosters, the bill aims to strangle the industry's ability to rebuild and sustain itself.

Animal welfare groups have enthusiastically endorsed the legislation. The Texas branch of the Animal Protection League released a statement calling HB 981 a "game-changer" in the fight against animal cruelty. "Cockfighting is a barbaric practice that inflicts immense suffering on these birds," the statement read. "This bill sends a strong message that Texas will not tolerate any activity that facilitates such cruelty. Limiting the supply of fighting roosters is a proactive and intelligent strategy."

However, the bill isn't without its minor detractors. Some representatives of poultry breeders have expressed concerns that the broad language of the bill could unintentionally impact legitimate businesses. Specifically, they worry about restrictions on transporting roosters for poultry shows, breeding programs focused on heritage breeds, or even for sale to individuals who have no intention of using them for cockfighting. Rep. Gates has assured these groups that the bill includes specific exemptions for legitimate poultry activities, clarifying that the intention is solely to target the illegal cockfighting trade.

The bill's wording defines "roosters transported via air" as those not meeting criteria for established agricultural or exhibition purposes, requiring documentation to prove legitimate usage. Penalties for violations would include substantial fines and potential seizure of the transported birds.

Experts suggest this approach could set a precedent for other states grappling with similar illegal animal fighting activities, such as dogfighting. By focusing on disrupting the supply chain, states can potentially shift the burden of proof onto those involved in the illegal trade, making prosecution more efficient and effective. Federal regulations regarding interstate animal transport exist, but often lack the specific focus needed to address the cockfighting industry's unique logistics.

While some argue that a complete federal ban on rooster transportation would be more comprehensive, supporters of HB 981 maintain that a state-level initiative can create a significant disruption within the region, encouraging neighboring states to consider similar measures. The bill is expected to face further debate in the coming weeks, but with growing bipartisan support and the backing of animal welfare organizations, its chances of passage appear promising. The fate of HB 981 may well determine if Texas can truly ground the illegal cockfighting industry and offer much-needed protection to these vulnerable animals.