Torres, R-Saipan, said the measure will be titled the Athletic Commission Act.
It aims to protect the competitors while raising revenue for Saipan.
“I think we should look at regulating the sport, and putting restrictions on the age of those who participate and watch,” Torres said.
Learning mixed martial arts, he added, is good for self-defense but when it is shown on television, minors should have parental guidance.
There were over 10 mixed martial arts competitions held on Saipan recently, Torres said.
H.L.B. 16-26 states that it is necessary to establish new statutes, rules and regulations to incorporate the sport of mixed martial arts and to update any existing provisions related to boxing or wrestling.
The bill will create a medical advisory board of three members who will advise the athletics commission regarding the physicians qualified to examine contestants.
The commission, the bill stated, may require a sanctioning organization or a broadcasting network for television that televises professional contests of unarmed combat to register with the commission before it participates, directly or indirectly in these events.
The bill does not apply to amateur contests or exhibitions held by schools, colleges or universities, and those involving unarmed Oriental self-defense.
