“My bill allows for a sensible wind-down of an already-declining industry that will ultimately outlaw greyhound racing,” Cardenas said. “As a longtime animal welfare advocate, I am committed to always speaking up for the voiceless.”

Jim Gartland, executive director of the National Greyhound Association, based in Abilene, Kansas, disputed allegations that the industry treats its dogs badly or uses live bait, noting that humane treatment of all animals is written into the association’s bylaws. The group would revoke the membership of anyone who violates the bylaws, which essentially removes them from the greyhound industry.

“We take all the allegations seriously,” he said. “We’re a little skeptical (about the videos) but we’ll cooperate fully with any investigation. We’ll also investigate on our own and if any members are found to have violated our bylaws, they’ll be dealt with accordingly.”

The videos also were sent to racing and state officials in Iowa, Arkansas, Florida and West Virginia, where GREY2K says the dogs raced, were bred or where their owners were licensed.

Carey Theil, executive director of GREY2K, said his group believes just over 100 dogs were trained at the tracks where the videos were shot.

The group contends criminal prosecution is allowed under federal and state animal cruelty laws.

Spokesmen for attorneys general in Kansas, Texas and Oklahoma all said they could not comment on whether their states are investigating the allegations. Theil said racing regulators in Florida, Iowa and Arkansas have told the group they are investigating.