RELATING TO HEALTHY WORKPLACES.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Stanley Chang and 5 co-sponsors

Bill SB 7 prohibits slap fighting in Alabama, imposing civil fines and Class C felony penalties for violators, enhancing safety in unarmed combat sports.

Re-Referred to JDC.

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Summary of Bill SB 7: Prohibition of Slap Fighting in Alabama

Bill Information:
- Bill Number: SB 7
- Title: Alabama Athletic Commission, slap fighting prohibited; Attorney General authorized to bring action for violations, certain violations constitute Class C felony
- Status: Read for the first time and referred to the Senate Committee on State Governmental Affairs
- Introduced: June 17, 2025
- Classification: Bill
- Subject: Occupational Licensing Boards

Purpose and Intent

Bill SB 7 aims to prohibit slap fighting in the state of Alabama. Slap fighting is defined as a form of unarmed combat where two opponents take turns slapping each other without the ability to defend themselves. The bill seeks to enhance the regulatory framework of the Alabama Athletic Commission, which currently oversees boxing, wrestling, and mixed martial arts, by explicitly banning this activity and establishing penalties for violations.

Key Provisions

Prohibition of Slap Fighting:

The bill amends existing laws to clearly state that slap fighting is not authorized in Alabama.
It defines slap fighting as a contest where opponents stand at arm's length and take turns slapping each other without any defensive actions.

Enforcement and Penalties:

The Attorney General is granted the authority to initiate civil actions against individuals or entities violating the prohibition on slap fighting.
Violations of the act can result in civil fines and criminal penalties, including:
- Class C Felony: For managers, promoters, or licensees who knowingly violate the provisions.
- Class B Misdemeanor: For professional fighters who violate the act, with additional fines up to $25,000 for specific violations.

Administrative Procedures:

The bill outlines a process for filing complaints regarding violations, which will be investigated by a standing committee within the Alabama Athletic Commission.
The commission can issue cease and desist orders, suspend or revoke licenses, and impose fines.

Effective Date:

The provisions of this act will take effect on October 1, 2026.

Impact

Who is Affected:

The bill primarily impacts individuals and organizations involved in slap fighting, including promoters and participants. It also affects the Alabama Athletic Commission, which will have increased regulatory responsibilities.

Legal and Financial Implications:

The introduction of criminal penalties and civil fines aims to deter slap fighting and ensure compliance with the new regulations. The potential for significant fines may influence the behavior of those involved in unarmed combat sports.

Legislative Actions

2026-01-13: The bill is pending committee action in the Senate Committee on State Governmental Affairs after being read for the first time.

2025-06-17: The bill was filed for consideration.

This summary provides an overview of SB 7, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, and potential impacts on the regulation of combat sports in Alabama.