Bill > S08437

This bill amends the New York state general business law to lower the financial and regulatory burden on professional wrestling promoters. The bill provides a new definition of "professional wrestling" as a performance of sports entertainment involving theatrical unarmed combat where participants do not intentionally cause harm and the outcome is predetermined. It removes the requirement for promoters to file a $20,000 bond with the comptroller and eliminates some previous detailed definitions of professional wrestling. The bill reduces the annual licensing fee for professional wrestling promoters to a maximum of $225 and maintains requirements that promoters obtain an annual license, notify the athletic commission before events, and have a medical professional present at exhibitions. For promoters hosting six or more exhibitions per year, the bill continues to mandate an anti-drug plan that includes educational materials and rehabilitation referral procedures for wrestlers. The changes aim to simplify regulations and reduce financial barriers for professional wrestling event organizers in New York state, while still maintaining basic oversight and safety requirements.

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S8437