HB1646 Summary

• Amends the Boxing and Full-contact Martial Arts Act to add definitions including "elimination tournament" (combative sports contests where contestants compete in series of matches until one remains per weight category) and "full-contact martial arts" (martial arts disciplines with full-force grappling, kicking, and striking intended to injure or incapacitate opponents).

• Establishes regulatory requirements for elimination tournaments including $5,000 surety bond, $50 permit fee, medical insurance of at least $10,000 per participant, ambulance with emergency personnel on-site, 16-ounce boxing gloves, headgear, and spectator seating at least 6 feet from ring.

• Sets elimination tournament format as 3 one-minute rounds with one-minute rest periods, judged on 10-point must system, single-elimination structure with participant knocked down 3 times losing the bout, and allows one-night or 2-night events with restrictions on participation frequency.

• Requires elimination tournament participants to be at least 18 years old, submit photo identification, pay $20 license fee, provide photographs, and complete pre-bout medical examinations by Department-appointed physician covering blood pressure, head, eyes, ears, nose, throat, lungs, chest, heart, and abdomen.

• Establishes four weight classes for male and female participants: lightweight (140-160 lbs), light heavyweight (160-185 lbs), heavyweight (185-205 lbs), and super heavyweight (205+ lbs), with Department approval required for additional weight classes.