Bill > SB2170

This bill establishes a new regulatory framework for combat sports contests in Hawaii by creating the Combat Sports Commission of Hawaii and repealing the existing law governing mixed martial arts contests in Hawaii. The key provisions include: - Defining "combat sports" and establishing the Combat Sports Commission of Hawaii to regulate the industry. - Giving the Commission sole jurisdiction over combat sports contests in the state and setting requirements for these contests, such as limits on the number and duration of rounds, contestant age and medical examinations, referee and physician involvement, and promoter requirements for insurance, bonds, and reporting. - Requiring licenses for all participants (promoters, contestants, referees, etc.) and giving the Commission authority to issue, renew, suspend, and revoke these licenses. - Establishing a Combat Sports Commission Special Fund to be used for administering the Commission's activities. - Prohibiting "no rules combat or similar contests" that put participants at high risk of injury or death. - Appropriating funds to the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs to establish full-time positions for the new Commission. The bill aims to continue growing the combat sports industry in Hawaii and attract high-profile events like those staged by the Ultimate Fighting Championship organization.