OKLAHOMA CITY – A bill that would reduce violations relating to cockfighting from felonies to misdemeanors flew through the House today, landing in the Senate.

Rep. Justin Humphrey, R-Lane, authored House Bill 2530.

"Voters in Oklahoma several years ago said they wanted us to reduce the population of our state prisons and reduce a number of offenses from felonies to misdemeanors," Humphrey said. "This bill is just in keeping with those wishes. No person has ever died from a chicken fight. This bill ensures that people who breed these birds will not face undue punishment."

The measure also would provide that 5% of the voters of a county may call an election on the issue by submitting a petition signed by such voters to the county election board. A majority of a county's commissioners also may call the special election.

Sen. Lonnie Paxton, R-Tuttle, now will battle for the bill in the Senate.