Bill would put athletic licensing under state department

The department would issue licenses to promoters and people working in professional contests. This covers promoters and contest workers such as fighters, trainers, referees, managers, and event coordinators. Promoters must apply in writing, pay the required annual fee, and file a bond of at least $2,000. People must have a license before taking part directly or indirectly in a professional contest.

The commission would have seven members and could form committees; it would recommend rules for the department to adopt. These provisions concern the New Mexico athletic commission and its members. The governor would appoint two members with event promotion or unarmed combat experience, a New Mexico-licensed lawyer, a licensed medical professional, and three public representatives. No more than four members could belong to the same political party. Committees would be chaired by a commission member.

The department would receive $100,000 for full-time staff to administer the Professional Athletic Competition Act. The money would go to the Regulation and Licensing Department. Any money left at the end of fiscal year 2027 would return to the general fund. The money would be available to spend in fiscal year 2027.

Professional boxing contests would be limited to 12 rounds. This applies to professional boxing contests. Each round could last no more than three minutes, with a one-minute rest between rounds.