S.B. No. 1181 aims to enhance the regulation of combative sports in Texas by amending the Occupations Code. Key changes include the clarification of licensing and bonding exceptions for amateur events, specifically allowing events conducted by recognized sports organizations of the United States Olympic Committee and international sports federations. Additionally, the bill introduces new responsibilities for promoters, requiring them to obtain department approval before holding events and ensuring that all contestants meet eligibility requirements. It also mandates the presence of emergency medical services at events and compliance with commission rules.

Furthermore, the bill establishes a new criminal offense for individuals who act as promoters for events that have not received the necessary approval from the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, classifying such an offense as a Class A misdemeanor. The bill repeals a previous section of the Occupations Code and includes provisions for the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation to set the approval process for promoters. The changes are designed to ensure the safety and regulation of combative sports events in Texas, with the law set to take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote or on September 1, 2025, if not.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Occupations Code 2052.110, Occupations Code 2052.115, Occupations Code 2052.254, Occupations Code 2052.3015 (Occupations Code 2052)
Senate Committee Report: Occupations Code 2052.110, Occupations Code 2052.115, Occupations Code 2052.254, Occupations Code 2052.3015 (Occupations Code 2052)