The CT Post reports that the state House of Representatives passed a bill to legalize mixed martial arts in the state. The bill now goes to the state senate for approval.
The bill passed 117-26 after debate in the House. The state senate voted down a similar bill last year. But, supporters of the bill proclaim the economic benefits.
Via CT Post:
A 5 percent additional tax on MMA bouts could give the state $350,000 for a single fight night at the XL Center, Dargan said. The economic benefits for downtown Hartford on fight night was estimated at $750,000 for hotels, restaurants and bars.
Payout Perspective:
A good step for Connecticut. Although its unlikely that the UFC would not make the state a part of its annual rotation, the local/regional MMA scene would benefit from the legalization. As always, the ancillary benefits of boosting the local businesses is a plus. If the bill passes, New York, Montana and Alaska (which does not have an athletic commission) would be the only states without MMA regulation.
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