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History
- Referred to health
Companion bill
The same bill in the other chamber. A bill becomes law when one version passes both houses and the governor signs it, so either number can carry it.
Requires the commissioner of health to conduct a health study to determine the dangers of mixed martial arts
In Assembly Committee · Tourism, Parks, Arts And Sports Development · Sponsor Ellen C. Jaffee
Full text
The text isn't available here yet. Check nysenate.gov.
Sponsor's memo
Title of bill
An act to require the commissioner of health to conduct a comprehensive health study to determine the dangers of mixed martial arts
Purpose or general idea of bill
To identify the most salient medical issues that may be associated with the practice of mixed martial arts.
Summary of specific provisions
Section 1 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 2 enacts the 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.
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.
Fiscal implications
Minimal for the Department of Health.
Effective date
This act shall take effect immediately.
Summaries, headlines and scores are AI-generated from the official bill text. How we score bills. Source: NYS Open Legislation.