HB 2639 Summary

• Establishes the Combat Sports Commission of Hawaii within the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, replacing the existing mixed martial arts program with new regulatory authority over combat sports contests.

• Requires all combat sports promoters, contestants, referees, judges, physicians, managers, and other participants to obtain licenses from the commission; prohibits unlicensed combat sports contests.

• Defines and prohibits "no rules combat or similar contests" that allow unrestricted combative techniques with few safety rules and place contestants at unreasonably high risk of injury or death.

• Imposes licensing fees on promoters based on gross receipts (3% of first $50,000; 2% over $50,000) and establishes the Combat Sports Commission Special Fund for operational expenses and compensation of commissioners and inspectors.

• Takes effect July 1, 2024; includes appropriations from general revenues and the special fund for fiscal year 2024-2025 (amounts to be determined).