This bill amends several sections of the Reissue Revised Statutes of Nebraska to expand the regulatory authority of the State Athletic Commissioner over various combat sports. Specifically, it authorizes the regulation of professional bare-knuckle mixed martial arts, professional mixed martial arts on ice, professional muay thai, amateur muay thai, and amateur kickboxing. The bill includes provisions for licensing requirements, fees, and the establishment of rules and regulations for conducting matches and exhibitions in these sports.
Key changes include the insertion of new language that specifies the types of matches and exhibitions under the commissioner's jurisdiction, such as professional bare-knuckle mixed martial arts and amateur kickboxing. Additionally, the bill outlines the licensing process for promoters, referees, judges, and other officials involved in these events, along with the associated fees. It also emphasizes the need for medical examinations and the imposition of penalties for violations, including the use of banned substances. The original sections of the statutes that are being amended will be repealed, streamlining the legal framework governing these sports in Nebraska.