Missouri House Bill HB2130

Missouri 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/5/22
• Refer: 3/10/22

Caption

Places professional bare-knuckle fighting under the charge and supervision of the division of professional registration

Impact

The bill introduces significant changes to how professional combat sports are overseen in Missouri, creating clear definitions and governance for bare-knuckle fighting. It emphasizes the health and safety of participants, including mandatory medical suspensions for those suffering certain injuries during competition. By placing the responsibility for permitting and oversight with a designated division, the bill intends to mitigate risks associated with bare-knuckle fighting and provide a more structured environment for both participants and promoters.

Summary

House Bill 2130 aims to regulate professional bare-knuckle fighting in Missouri by repealing several existing sections pertaining to professional combat sports and enacting new provisions specifically for bare-knuckle fighting. This bill establishes a framework under which bare-knuckle fighting events can be sanctioned and overseen, ensuring they meet specified safety and operational standards. The legislation stipulates that all events must be held under the authority of the division of professional registration, which will charge fees for hosting such events, as well as regulate and monitor participant safety and event legitimacy.

Contention

As with any legislation concerning combat sports, there are potential points of contention among legislators and the public. Some proponents argue that establishing regulations is essential for ensuring safety and legitimacy in an otherwise unregulated area. Critics, however, may raise concerns about the implications of legalizing and regulating bare-knuckle fighting, including moral objections to violent sports and the potential for increased injuries among participants. The discussions around this bill reflect a broader debate over how to balance public safety with individual freedom in sports.