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HB 1952

TO ASSIST THE ADMINISTRATION OF THE STATE ATHLETIC COMMISSION; TO PROVIDE FUNDING TO THE STATE ATHLETIC COMMISSION TO CONTINUE ITS MISSION TO PROMOTE A ROBUST, HEALTHY, AND SAFE COMBATIVE SPORTS INDUSTRY.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Jonathan Dismang and 1 co-sponsor

Act 947 boosts Arkansas' State Athletic Commission's authority and funding, ensuring better regulation and safety for combative sports, impacting promoters and participants.

Notification that HB1952 is now Act 947
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Bill Summary · HB 1952

Summary of House Bill 1952 (Act 947)

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1952, now known as Act 947, aims to enhance the administration and funding of the State Athletic Commission in Arkansas. The primary goal is to support the commission's mission of promoting a robust, healthy, and safe combative sports industry within the state. This legislation seeks to ensure that combative sports are regulated effectively while maintaining safety standards for participants and spectators.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces several amendments to existing Arkansas Code related to combative sports:

1. Definitions of Combative Sports

  • Expanded Definition: The definition of "combative sports" now includes boxing, kickboxing, wrestling, martial arts, and similar activities that involve physical competition where injury may occur.
  • Exclusions: The bill clarifies that student training and exhibitions conducted for health and recreational purposes, without competition, are not classified as combative sports.

2. Authority of the State Athletic Commission

  • The commission is granted sole discretion over all combative sports matches and exhibitions in Arkansas, with specific provisions for amateur events and professional wrestling.
  • Professional wrestling events with over 1,500 attendees will be governed by the commission.

3. Training and Certification of Officials

  • Referees and judges for professional events must complete training and obtain certification from recognized organizations approved by the commission.
  • Training can be conducted anywhere in the U.S., provided proper documentation is submitted for licensing.

4. Financial Reporting and Fees

  • Promoters are required to submit a detailed report of ticket sales and gross receipts to the commission within five business days after an event.
  • A five-percent fee on gross receipts from admissions is mandated, with specific calculations depending on whether sales tax is collected.
  • Promoters are responsible for covering costs associated with event inspectors and other commission-related expenses.

Impact

The enactment of HB 1952 (Act 947) will primarily affect:
- State Athletic Commission: Enhanced funding and authority will enable better regulation and oversight of combative sports.
- Promoters and Participants: Increased financial reporting requirements and fees may impact how events are organized and managed.
- Athletes and Spectators: Improved safety measures and regulations are expected to enhance the overall experience and safety of combative sports events.

Procedural Timeline

  • Introduced: April 1, 2025
  • Passed: April 15, 2025
  • Enrolled and Transmitted to Governor: April 16, 2025
  • Act Notification: April 21, 2025

This summary provides an overview of HB 1952 (Act 947), detailing its purpose, key provisions, and the potential impact on the combative sports industry in Arkansas.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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