Senate Bill S7673

                                 BILL NUMBER:  S7673

 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.