BILL REQ. #:  H-3444.1 

Read first time 01/21/14.   Referred to Committee on Business & Financial Services.

     AN ACT Relating to a sunrise review of regulation of wrestling events; creating a new section; and providing an expiration date.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON:

NEW SECTION.  Sec. 1   (1) The department of licensing shall conduct a review of the need for regulation of theatrical wrestling events, including but not limited to lucha libre, using the public criteria set forth in RCW 18.118.010 in order to develop recommendations to the legislature regarding such regulation. In developing its findings and recommendations, the department of licensing shall:
     (a) Consider the extent to which organizations that infrequently sponsor or host a noncompetitive theatrical wrestling event require regulation;
     (b) Consider the extent to which wrestling events that do not involve competition require regulation;
     (c) Examine the regulation of theatrical wrestling in other states; and
     (d) Consult with professional wrestling or theatrical wrestling participants, other licensees under chapter 67.08 RCW, other stakeholders, and any entity or individual who may assist in identifying areas of concern regarding the safety of professional or theatrical wrestlers and spectators.
     (2) By November 1, 2014, the department of licensing shall submit a report detailing its findings and recommendations under this section to the appropriate committees of the legislature regarding:
     (a) The need for regulation of theatrical wrestling; and
     (b) If some form of regulation is recommended, the minimum qualifications and oversight required to meet the regulatory standard.
     (3) This section expires July 1, 2015.