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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
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State
Rep. Marc Gergely |
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Gergely bill updating Pa.'s boxing law heads to Senate
HARRISBURG, July 23 – The House of Representatives this week easily passed a bill introduced by state Rep. Marc Gergely to modernize the state law for boxing and wrestling in Pennsylvania.
Gergely said H.B. 1187 would make several improvements to the law, such as allowing the State Athletic Commission to enter into contracts with other states to supervise boxing matches in those states. Delaware has expressed interest in having Pennsylvania supervise boxing matches there, but Pennsylvania law only allows the commission to regulate professional or amateur boxing here.
"This bill would clear the way for those types of agreements to proceed, which is in the best interests of boxing in Pennsylvania and across the country," Gergely said.
Gergely's bill would also improve the safety of boxers by giving the commission the authority to set glove weight regulations. Currently there are only two categories of boxing glove weights, which are based on the boxer's weight.
"There is a concern that as boxers get heavier the requirements for boxing gloves are insufficient. My bill would allow the commission to set boxing glove weight requirements so it is better able to keep pace as boxers get larger and stronger and advances are made in glove technology. Ultimately, this will make boxers safer when they step into the ring."
The bill would further update the law by removing restrictions on the age of amateur boxers and allow local amateur boxing associations to set minimum age standards. The local association age rules must be approved by the State Athletic Commission.
The bill would also clarify the commission's jurisdiction over professional wrestling contests. Presently, the state's Wrestling Act says a wrestling promoter produces, arranges or stages professional wrestling exhibitions. In professional exhibitions, wrestlers display their skills without necessarily trying to win. Gergely's bill would add professional wrestling contests, which are matches were participants try to win. This would ensure that promoters understand the commission can oversee both contests and exhibitions.
Gergely's bill passed the House by a vote of 193-6. It now heads to the state Senate for consideration.
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CONTACT: Kevin Hensil |