FINAL BILL REPORT

SHB 1420

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Background:

The Department of Licensing (Department) regulates boxing, martial arts, kickboxing, and wrestling events. Wrestling events are defined as sports entertainment where participants participate in a physical struggle against each other in the ring and the outcome may be predetermined or the participants do not necessarily strive to win.

Licensure.

Generally, wrestlers, boxers, martial arts participants, promoters, and others involved with the events must obtain a license from the Department. The Department requires that wrestling event promoters pay a fee equal to 6 percent of the gross receipts, plus $1 per ticket sold, for any event held under the promoter license. A separate license fee is assessed to participants and promoters. Events held at a school, college, or university in which all participants are students are exempt from regulation.

Medical Personnel Requirement.

The promoter of a wrestling, boxing, or martial arts event must, at its own expense, have an ambulance or paramedical unit on site at the event. The Department may require the presence of a physician at a wrestling event and may require the medical examination of a participant.

Summary:

Licensure.

A new theatrical wrestling school license is created. Licensees may hold a limited number of public events per year (to be determined by the Department), which must feature at least 80 percent amateur participants. Wrestling shows presented by a theatrical wrestling school may charge an admission fee and are not required to obtain a promoter license. Wrestling participants engaged in training or a show at a theatrical wrestling school are exempt from licensure. The Department has rulemaking authority to implement the license.

Medical Personnel Requirement.

Any wrestling show presented by a theatrical wrestling school must have an ambulance, paramedical unit, or medical technician on site at the event.

Votes on Final Passage:

House	95	2
Senate	46	0