Senate Bill S4093A

                                
 
BILL NUMBER: S4093

SPONSOR: KRUEGER
 
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 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 partic-
ipants 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 inju-
ries 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 induc-
ing 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 legalization in New York State raises legitimate concerns
about the increased exposure of our children to this new and potentially
very negative influence.

 
LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:

2017-2018 - S.6384 No Same As - died in Health
2015-2016 - S.7673/A.1529-A Jaffee - died in Health

 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:

Minimal for the Department of Health.

 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect immediately.