MMA Junkie reports that South Dakota is ready to sign off on a bill that will legalize mixed martial arts in the state. Gov. Dennis Daugaard stated that he will not stand in the way of a bill that would regulate MMA and boxing.
The bill passed out of committee and the state legislature. The South Dakota Athletic Commission which will regulate MMA will commence on July 1st of this year. It has received $95,000 of funding.
While the governor is opposed to the violence in the sport, he recognized the argument that regulation would curtail some safety concerns.
South Dakota become the 46th state to regulate MMA. Only New York, Connecticut and Montana do not regulate MMA. Alaska does not have an athletic commission.
(H/t: Argus Leader)
Payout Perspective:
A victory for mixed martial arts in the state of South Dakota. While this news will be just a blip on the screen nationally, the recognition by the governor that regulation would protect those participating in the sport should be highlighted. Even though he was opposed to the sport, one has to think of the safety of the people of the state and the new commission should oversee MMA and boxing events.
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