The New Mexico Senate has voted 31-11 to outlaw cockfighting.
The vote on Senate Bill 10, sponsored by Sen. Mary Jane Garcia, D-Doña Ana, occurred moments ago after hours of debate.
“It was awesome,” Garcia told me. “I’m so excited.”
The final version of the bill passed by the Senate makes a first offense a petty misdemeanor punishable by up to six months in prison. A second offense is a misdemeanor punishable by up to a year in prison, and further offenses are fourth-degree felonies punishable by up to 18 months in prison.
Garcia said she will meet with state Rep. Peter Wirth, D-Santa Fe, on Thursday to discuss the legislation. Wirth will carry it in the House, where it must also pass before going to the governor’s desk.
“I think I’ll be OK in the House,” Garcia said. “Of course, I’ll have to work it.”