BILL NUMBER:S2622

TITLE OF BILL:  An act to impose a two year moratorium on the conduct
of mixed martial arts events and amateur mixed martial arts
competition events in the state and to require the commissioner of the
department of health to conduct a comprehensive health study to
determine the dangers of mixed martial arts

PURPOSE:

To identify the most salient medical issues that may be associated
with the practice of mixed martial arts.

SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:

Section 1 Prohibits the practice of public and for-profit mixed
martial arts events and amateur mixed martial arts for a period of two
years from the effective date of this act.

Section 2 Authorizes the commissioner of the department of health to
conduct a comprehensive health study to determine the dangers to
participants of engaging in mixed martial arts competition events.

Section 3 Effective date.

JUSTIFICATION:
              

Recent revelations about long-term health impacts for participants in
professional sports such as football have only highlighted the
necessity for the State of New York to have adequate information
detailing the health impacts of so-called "mixed martial arts" (MMA)
fighting.

Before permitting these professional fighting events in our state,
both the mental and physical impacts for participants and the public
deserve a thorough assessment. In addition to the various acute
traumatic injuries combatants can suffer, evidence indicates
longer-term injuries or illness can be more likely for those exposed
to repeated blows in mixed martial bouts, even when the lion's share
of hits falls short of inducing a full concussion.

Repeated blows to the head, choke-holds, submission holds, fractured
bones, damaged cartilage, and other severe injuries are major causes
of concern for the state, which could bear financial burdens for
future medical treatment. Competitive MMA is a relatively new and
growing sport, whose underlying health risks and long-term problems
are not yet fully known. A two-year moratorium will give the state
time to study the negative health effects resulting from extended
participation in professional MMA competition.

At the same time, there may be adverse public safety and mental health
consequences for society as a whole, and particularly children, if we
legalize this sport without first adequately accounting for the risks.
Due to the violent nature of mixed martial arts and the surprisingly
high incidence of unchallenged sexism and misogyny displayed by
certain fighters, commentators, and other public figures associated
with this sport, the prospect of legalization in New York State raises


legitimate concerns about the increased exposure of our children to
this new and potentially very negative influence.

All of these risk factors and costs require study before the state can
responsibly permit professional competitive MMA events.  Current New
York State law prohibits professional mixed martial arts events but
amateur mixed martial arts fights are held in the state.

FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:

Minimal for the Department of Health to conduct adequate research.

EFFECTIVE DATE:

This act shall take effect immediately.