NYS MMA Legislation

28Apr/100

Currently in NYS, there is a movement to legalize mixed martial arts in the state. I have already signed a petition at my gym, despite my skepticism in the effectiveness of petitions. On one of the forums I browse, one of the members wrote a very cordial email to NYS assemblyman Joel M. Miller urging him to support efforts to legalize mma in the state:

David Karchmer wrote:

I am urging you to support efforts to bring Mixed Martial Arts to New York. I have been a long time fan of the sport and I am hoping that the New York State legislature will pass bill # A2009/S2165, which would finally legalize MMA in New York.

Mixed Martial Arts is one of the fastest growing and most exciting sports in America, featuring world class athletes and a high degree of skill. In the past five years, the sport of Mixed Martial Arts has seen a meteoric rise in interest from nearly every age and demographic, adding to its cache as a mainstream sport. MMA fighters are former Olympians, former NCAA wrestlers, elite-level athletes that deserve the support of New York. MMA events are heavily regulated under the Unified Rules of Mixed Martial Arts to ensure that the highest levels of safety for all the athletes.

Mixed Martial Arts events regularly sell out venues, bringing millions in tourist dollars to states that sanction events. At a time when our state is facing difficult economic times, the additional revenue that MMA events would drive in would be a great benefit for our cash-strapped cities and arenas. Hundreds of thousands, if not, millions of New Yorkers are watching MMA on TV, so our outdated ban merely deprives us of the revenue.

It is time for New York to the join the 36 other states, including New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Ohio, in regulating this sport. Thank you for your time.

This was Mr. Miller's response:

Dear Mr. David Karchmer,

This is in response to your postcard regarding Assembly Bill A2009C. This bill would establish protocols for combative sports, authorize, and tax gross receipts for mixed martial arts events. Thank you for taking the time to write and advise me of your views.

This bill was referred to the Tourism, Parks, Arts, and Sports Committee. This is a brutal activity. These fighters should not be viewed as role models. The Governor claims it would generate about $2 million in revenue for the state. It would be better to cut spending than to allow to be viewed in auditoriums or on TV which might encourage immature individuals to mimic this behavior. Should it come to the floor of the Assembly I will be voting against it.

If either my staff or I can be of further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us at 845-463-1635 or via email at millerj@assembly.state.ny.us.

Thank you again for writing.

Sincerely,

Joel M. Miller

Member of Assembly

102nd Assembly District

Wow! The level of sheer ignorance is ridiculous. I am offended because I do hold many mma fighters in high regard. The level of training, dedication and skill to succeed in this sport is very high. Many of these fighters, even the champs who are on top of the food chain, do not receive compensation anywhere close to other professional athletes such as boxers, football players, basketball players.

For this guy to insult such dedicated athletes (YES, these are fucking atheletes!) shows just how close-minded some individuals are. I acknowledge that the sport in its infancy was very brutal. Gloves were not used. Kicks to head on a down opponent were allowed, and so was just about anything short of eye gouging and fishhooking. But the sport of mixed martial arts has come a LONG way since the times of UFC 1 and when John McCain referred to mixed martial arts as "human cock-fighting."

Measures and regulations have been put in place to ensure the safety of the fighters, which helps to prolong their careers. It is upsetting that people do not acknowledge the legitimacy of mixed martial arts as a sport and do not give its athletes the respect they deserve.