18700. All buildings or structures used or intended to be used to
conduct, hold, give a contest or match, or exhibition shall be safe
and shall conform to the laws, ordinances, and regulations pertaining
to the buildings in the jurisdiction where the building or structure
is situated.
18701. There shall be posted in public view at every place that a
contest is held a notice in English and Spanish which states that it
is unlawful to throw any object in the direction of the ring.
18702. No person under the age of 18 years shall participate as a
contestant in any contest or match or exhibition, except that any
person 16 years or over may be licensed as an amateur and may
participate in an amateur contest or match.
18703. All admission tickets to any contest or exhibition shall
have printed clearly upon the face thereof the purchase price of the
ticket, and no ticket shall be sold for more than that price. The
tickets shall have the number of the ticket printed clearly on both
ends of the ticket.
18705. Every promoter shall have at its own expense in attendance
at every contest, a licensed physician approved by the commission who
has had not less than three years experience in the practice of
medicine since licensure, who shall perform the physical examination
of the contestants and observe the physical condition of the
contestants during the contest or match.
The services of the physician shall be paid according to a
schedule of fees adopted by the commission. The fees shall be paid by
the club to the commission, and it shall remit the payment to the
physician.
18705.5. The commission shall adopt regulations detailing the
criteria for approval of a licensed physician pursuant to Section
18705.
18706. (a) Not later than at the weigh-in time, which shall be not
more than 30 hours prior to the beginning of the first event, the
physician provided for in Section 18705 shall conduct a physical
examination of the contestant and certify in writing as to the
contestant's physical condition to engage in the contest or match.
(1) The commission shall make the contestants' medical records
available to the physician and the physician shall review the
contestant's medical records as part of the certification of the
contestant's physical condition.
(2) The physician shall determine whether the contestant may have
any knowledge, manifestations, symptoms, or prior history of a
physical condition that may affect the contestant's ability to
perform or present a potential threat to the contestant's health as a
result of competing in the contest or match. The contestant shall
complete a questionnaire developed by the commission. The contestant
shall be asked to disclose on the questionnaire any conditions of
which the contestant is aware, including, but not limited to, any of
the following:
(A) Significant weight gain or loss and any change in weight in
the seven days prior to the contest.
(B) Neuromuscular condition, including peripheral nerves, muscle
problems, and brain problems.
(C) Pregnancy.
(D) Bone fractures and all forms of arthritis.
(E) Any condition related to vision or changes in hearing
function.
(F) Heart condition or other cardiovascular condition.
(G) Pulmonary or respiratory condition.
(H) Renal or urological condition.
(I) Hematological condition, including manifestations of any
unusual bleeding or bruising.
If any condition is disclosed under this paragraph, the physician
shall not allow the contestant to compete unless the physician or, at
the contestant's discretion, the contestant's personal physician,
who is licensed to practice medicine in the United States, has
conducted a physical examination and determined that the specific
condition does not affect the contestant's ability to perform or
present a potential threat to the contestant's health as a result of
competing in the contest or match.
(3) The questionnaire shall be developed by the commission through
promulgated regulations in consultation with qualified medical
professionals.
(4) Nothing in this chapter may be construed to require a
contestant to submit to a pregnancy test.
(b) On the day of the event, and no later than one hour before the
contestants enter the ring, the physician provided for in Section
18705 shall conduct a brief reexamination and certify in writing as
to the contestant's physical condition to engage in the contest or
match. This reexamination shall include an evaluation of any
significant changes since the physical examination provided under
subdivision (a).
(c) A report of the medical examinations shall be filed with the
commission not later than 24 hours after the termination of the
contest or match. The physician's report of the examination shall
include specific mention as to the condition of the contestant's
heart, nerves and brain.
18707. A physician in attendance at any contest or match pursuant
to Section 18705 shall have the authority to stop any contest or
match that is conferred upon the referee. The physician's authority
shall be limited to a medically related injury and the physical
condition of a contestant.
18710. In its discretion, the commission may order a special
medical examination to be undertaken by any licensee, the report of
which shall be made to the commission. The cost of the examination
shall be shared equally by the commission and the licensee.
18711. (a) (1) (A) The commission shall require, as a condition of
licensure and as a part of the application process, the examination
by a licensed physician and surgeon who specializes in neurology and
neurosurgery of each applicant for a license as a professional
athlete or contestant licensed under this chapter or, if for the
renewal of a license, this examination every year, in addition to any
other medical examinations.
(i) Upon initial licensure, the examination shall include tests
and examinations designed to detect physical conditions that could
place the athlete or contestant at risk for serious injury or
permanent or temporary impairment of any bodily function. These tests
or examinations shall include, but not be limited to, a neurological
examination or a neuro-psychological examination, a brain imaging
scan, and an electrocardiogram (EKG). The physician may recommend any
additional tests or evaluations he or she deems necessary.
(ii) For renewal of a license, the physician shall determine the
tests or evaluations necessary, if any.
(iii) The commission may require an athlete or contestant licensed
under this chapter to undergo additional neurological tests where,
based on the totality of the athlete's or contestant's records, it
appears the athlete or contestant may be at risk of cognitive
impairment.
(iv) On the basis of a physical examination under this
subdivision, and any additional tests that are conducted, the
physician may recommend to the commission whether the applicant may
be permitted to be licensed in California or not. The executive
officer shall review these recommendations and report any denials of
licensure. If, as a result of these recommendations, the executive
officer refuses to grant the applicant a license or to renew a
license, the applicant shall not compete in California until the
denial has been overruled by the commission as provided in this
chapter.
(v) The commission may waive the requirement for a brain imaging
scan or an EKG if a brain imaging scan or EKG was completed as part
of the licensing requirements in another state, the commission
determines that this brain imaging scan or EKG creates a reliable
baseline for the athlete or contestant, and the commission has been
provided with a copy of the brain imaging scan or EKG reports.
(vi) This subparagraph shall become inoperative on the date the
regulations adopted by the commission pursuant to subparagraph (B)
become operative.
(B) On and after January 1, 2008, all professional athletes
licensed under this chapter shall be required by the commission to
complete a medical examination process, which shall include the
completion of specific medical examinations, to be determined by the
commission through regulations, as a condition of initial licensure
and license renewal. This medical examination process may include
examinations required under current law and any additional medical
examinations determined to be medically necessary. In adopting the
medical examination process, the commission shall consider the health
and safety of contestants, the medical necessity of any examinations
required, and the financial aspects of requiring those medical
examinations.
(2) In the absence of any pertinent untoward medical event, the
commission may, in its discretion, on forms prescribed by the
commission, accept tests or evaluations that are equivalent to those
described in paragraph (1) and that have been completed within one
year of licensure to meet the requirements of this subdivision.
(3) (A) Any medical records obtained, reviewed, or created under
this chapter shall be utilized only for purposes of administering
this chapter. The commission and any physician may not disclose the
athlete's medical records without a signed authorization from the
athlete, except that the commission may disclose those records to
other state licensing boards and commissions to which the athlete has
applied for licensure or has an enforcement action pending, or upon
court order in a criminal or civil action.
(B) After the adoption of regulations to establish a process for
participating in medical research studies, the commission may use
medical information for purposes of participating in medical research
studies of the effects on the human body of contests and exhibitions
regulated under this chapter. However, medical information shall not
include any personal identifying information on any contestant,
including, but not limited to, the contestant's name, address,
telephone number, social security number, license number, federal
identification number, or any other information identifying the
contestant. The medical information shall only be provided if the
licensed athlete has consented in writing to participate in the
research study. The regulations adopted by the commission shall
include a process to ensure that no conflicts of interest arise
regarding which medical examinations are required to be completed by
contestants.
(b) If an applicant for licensure as a professional athlete under
this chapter undergoes a neurological examination for purposes of
licensure within the 120-day period immediately preceding the normal
expiration of that license, the applicant shall not be required to
undergo an additional neurological examination within the following
12 consecutive month license period unless the commission, for cause,
orders that the examination be taken. The commission shall notify
all commission-approved physicians and referees that the commission
has the authority to order any professional athlete to undergo a
neurological examination.
(c) The cost of the examinations required by this section shall be
paid from assessments on any one or more of the following: promoters
of professional matches, managers, and professional athletes or
other contestants licensed under this chapter. The rate and manner of
assessment shall be set by the commission, and may cover all costs
associated with the requirements of this section. This assessment
shall be imposed on all contests approved by the commission under
this chapter. As of July 1, 1994, all moneys received by the
commission pursuant to this section shall be deposited in and
credited to the State Athletic Commission Neurological Examination
Account which is hereby created in the General Fund.
(d) Whenever a reference is made to the Boxers' Neurological
Examination Account, it is to be construed as referring to the State
Athletic Commission Neurological Examination Account.
18712. (a) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, any person
applying for a license or the renewal of a license as a professional
boxer or as a professional martial arts fighter shall present
documentary evidence satisfactory to the commission that the
applicant has been administered a test, by a laboratory in the United
States that possesses a certificate under the Clinical Laboratory
Improvement Act (42 U.S.C. Sec. 263a), to detect the presence of
antibodies both to the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and to
hepatitis C virus (HCV) and to detect the presence of the antigen of
hepatitis B virus (HBV) within 30 days prior to the date of the
application and that the results of all three tests are negative. A
negative report for all three tests shall also be required of a
professional boxer or professional martial arts fighter prior to
competing in a match that will occur 180 days or more after the date
of the tests submitted for the issuance or renewal of his or her
license.
(b) Information received under this section and any other medical
information about an applicant or licensee shall be confidential and
not subject to discovery or subpoena. If the commission denies a
license or the renewal of a license or suspends or revokes a license
because of a licensee's HIV or HCV antibody status or HBV antigen
status, it shall state only that the action was taken for medical
reasons. An applicant or licensee may appeal the commission's denial,
suspension, or revocation of a license under this section. The
commission shall notify each person in writing of his or her right to
a closed hearing for that appeal. An applicant or licensee must make
a request for a hearing to the commission within 30 days of
receiving notification from the commission of the applicant's or
licensee's right to a hearing.
18714. For the purpose of studying and recommending medical and
safety standards for the conduct of boxing and martial arts, the
commission may call meetings of those licensed physicians and
surgeons as it deems necessary at such times and places it deems
appropriate. The commission is authorized to pay the necessary
traveling expenses and per diem, as provided in Section 103, to the
committee members in attendance at these meetings.
18720. (a) No boxing contest or match shall be more than 12 rounds
of not more than three minutes each in length, except that
championship contests may, if the written approval of the commission
is first obtained, be 15 rounds of not more than three minutes each
in length. The commission may limit the number of rounds in a contest
within the maximum.
(b) There shall be one minute rest between consecutive rounds.
18721. The commission may by rule specify the frequency with which
boxers may participate in a contest.
18723. All gloves used by contestants in professional and amateur
boxing contests or matches shall be approved by the commission and
constructed so that:
(a) The thumb is not detached from the glove in such a manner that
injury could result.
(b) The soft padding between the outside coverings shall be evenly
distributed over the back of the gloves, and cover the knuckles and
back of the hands.
(c) All paddings shall be consistent with the best available
material and technology in order to reduce the cumulative effects of
repetitive impacts.
18724. All professional and amateur boxing contests or matches
shall be performed on a ring floor and padding which meet at least
the following specifications:
(a) The ring floor shall be constructed of 1 1/4 inch plywood.
(b) The ring floor padding shall be of 1 3/4 inch thickness
consisting of closed cellular foam in combination with high density
polyvinylchloride (PVC) bonded together in solid sections, or
equivalent covering.
18725. In addition to the requirements of this act, the commission
may establish glove weights, equipment standards, safety standards,
and the length of rounds in order to protect the health and safety of
contestants.
18728. The commission shall establish by rule the weight spreads
and classes of contestants.
18730. A referee shall be in attendance and direct and control at
every boxing contest. Referees shall enforce the rules of the
commission at every boxing contest.
18731. No referee or physician shall be assigned to a boxing
contest who has not participated in a clinic sponsored by the
commission in accordance with this section in the preceding six
months.
Clinics shall include, among other things, the subjects of the
rules of the commission, the recognition and diagnosis of serious or
life-threatening, boxing-related and neurological injuries and
disorders, and refereeing a bout.
The commission is authorized to pay any necessary and authorized
travel expenses of referees and physicians who attend such clinics.
18732. Before starting a contest, the referee shall ascertain from
each contestant, the name of his or her chief second, and shall hold
such chief second responsible for the conduct of assistants during
the contest.
18733. The referee shall stop a contest when a contestant shows a
marked superiority, or is apparently outclassed.
18734. (a) The commission shall designate the scoring officials for
each contest.
(b) The referee may render a decision at the end of a boxing
contest if authorized by a representative of the commission.
(c) The commission may require that judges be used in conjunction
with the referee at any boxing contest.
18735. Referees and other boxing officials appointed by the
commission while performing duties required under this chapter by the
commission shall be entitled to the same rights and immunities
granted to public employees by the provisions of Article 3
(commencing with Section 820), Chapter 1, Part 2, Division 3.6, Title
1 of the Government Code. The provisions of this section shall not
be construed to affect, create, or destroy any rights or obligations
of any public or private employer of a referee or other boxing
official.
18738. (a) A boxer who intentionally hits a contestant with a
rabbit punch or with a punch on that part of the body over the
kidneys shall be penalized by the loss of a point for each such
punch.
(b) Determination that a boxer has violated this section shall be
made at the end of the round in which the violation occurred and
prior to the next round by the referee or, if judges are used in
conjunction with the referee, by any two officials. Upon such a
determination, each such official shall penalize the boxer pursuant
to subdivision (a).
(c) Upon a determination that this section has been violated, the
referee shall inform both boxers and their managers at the end of the
round in which the violation occurred and prior to the next round,
and inform the audience of the penalty thus assessed. In any such
case, the rest period may be extended by the referee.
18748. Recognizing the need for uniformity in championship
contests, the commission may exempt championship contests from any
provision of this chapter and authorize alternate provisions as long
as the safety and welfare of the boxers and the public are not
jeopardized.
18700. All buildings or structures used or intended to be used to
conduct, hold, give a contest or match, or exhibition shall be safe
and shall conform to the laws, ordinances, and regulations pertaining
to the buildings in the jurisdiction where the building or structure
is situated.
18701. There shall be posted in public view at every place that a
contest is held a notice in English and Spanish which states that it
is unlawful to throw any object in the direction of the ring.
18702. No person under the age of 18 years shall participate as a
contestant in any contest or match or exhibition, except that any
person 16 years or over may be licensed as an amateur and may
participate in an amateur contest or match.
18703. All admission tickets to any contest or exhibition shall
have printed clearly upon the face thereof the purchase price of the
ticket, and no ticket shall be sold for more than that price. The
tickets shall have the number of the ticket printed clearly on both
ends of the ticket.
18705. Every promoter shall have at its own expense in attendance
at every contest, a licensed physician approved by the commission who
has had not less than three years experience in the practice of
medicine since licensure, who shall perform the physical examination
of the contestants and observe the physical condition of the
contestants during the contest or match.
The services of the physician shall be paid according to a
schedule of fees adopted by the commission. The fees shall be paid by
the club to the commission, and it shall remit the payment to the
physician.
18705.5. The commission shall adopt regulations detailing the
criteria for approval of a licensed physician pursuant to Section
18705.
18706. (a) Not later than at the weigh-in time, which shall be not
more than 30 hours prior to the beginning of the first event, the
physician provided for in Section 18705 shall conduct a physical
examination of the contestant and certify in writing as to the
contestant's physical condition to engage in the contest or match.
(1) The commission shall make the contestants' medical records
available to the physician and the physician shall review the
contestant's medical records as part of the certification of the
contestant's physical condition.
(2) The physician shall determine whether the contestant may have
any knowledge, manifestations, symptoms, or prior history of a
physical condition that may affect the contestant's ability to
perform or present a potential threat to the contestant's health as a
result of competing in the contest or match. The contestant shall
complete a questionnaire developed by the commission. The contestant
shall be asked to disclose on the questionnaire any conditions of
which the contestant is aware, including, but not limited to, any of
the following:
(A) Significant weight gain or loss and any change in weight in
the seven days prior to the contest.
(B) Neuromuscular condition, including peripheral nerves, muscle
problems, and brain problems.
(C) Pregnancy.
(D) Bone fractures and all forms of arthritis.
(E) Any condition related to vision or changes in hearing
function.
(F) Heart condition or other cardiovascular condition.
(G) Pulmonary or respiratory condition.
(H) Renal or urological condition.
(I) Hematological condition, including manifestations of any
unusual bleeding or bruising.
If any condition is disclosed under this paragraph, the physician
shall not allow the contestant to compete unless the physician or, at
the contestant's discretion, the contestant's personal physician,
who is licensed to practice medicine in the United States, has
conducted a physical examination and determined that the specific
condition does not affect the contestant's ability to perform or
present a potential threat to the contestant's health as a result of
competing in the contest or match.
(3) The questionnaire shall be developed by the commission through
promulgated regulations in consultation with qualified medical
professionals.
(4) Nothing in this chapter may be construed to require a
contestant to submit to a pregnancy test.
(b) On the day of the event, and no later than one hour before the
contestants enter the ring, the physician provided for in Section
18705 shall conduct a brief reexamination and certify in writing as
to the contestant's physical condition to engage in the contest or
match. This reexamination shall include an evaluation of any
significant changes since the physical examination provided under
subdivision (a).
(c) A report of the medical examinations shall be filed with the
commission not later than 24 hours after the termination of the
contest or match. The physician's report of the examination shall
include specific mention as to the condition of the contestant's
heart, nerves and brain.
18707. A physician in attendance at any contest or match pursuant
to Section 18705 shall have the authority to stop any contest or
match that is conferred upon the referee. The physician's authority
shall be limited to a medically related injury and the physical
condition of a contestant.
18710. In its discretion, the commission may order a special
medical examination to be undertaken by any licensee, the report of
which shall be made to the commission. The cost of the examination
shall be shared equally by the commission and the licensee.
18711. (a) (1) (A) The commission shall require, as a condition of
licensure and as a part of the application process, the examination
by a licensed physician and surgeon who specializes in neurology and
neurosurgery of each applicant for a license as a professional
athlete or contestant licensed under this chapter or, if for the
renewal of a license, this examination every year, in addition to any
other medical examinations.
(i) Upon initial licensure, the examination shall include tests
and examinations designed to detect physical conditions that could
place the athlete or contestant at risk for serious injury or
permanent or temporary impairment of any bodily function. These tests
or examinations shall include, but not be limited to, a neurological
examination or a neuro-psychological examination, a brain imaging
scan, and an electrocardiogram (EKG). The physician may recommend any
additional tests or evaluations he or she deems necessary.
(ii) For renewal of a license, the physician shall determine the
tests or evaluations necessary, if any.
(iii) The commission may require an athlete or contestant licensed
under this chapter to undergo additional neurological tests where,
based on the totality of the athlete's or contestant's records, it
appears the athlete or contestant may be at risk of cognitive
impairment.
(iv) On the basis of a physical examination under this
subdivision, and any additional tests that are conducted, the
physician may recommend to the commission whether the applicant may
be permitted to be licensed in California or not. The executive
officer shall review these recommendations and report any denials of
licensure. If, as a result of these recommendations, the executive
officer refuses to grant the applicant a license or to renew a
license, the applicant shall not compete in California until the
denial has been overruled by the commission as provided in this
chapter.
(v) The commission may waive the requirement for a brain imaging
scan or an EKG if a brain imaging scan or EKG was completed as part
of the licensing requirements in another state, the commission
determines that this brain imaging scan or EKG creates a reliable
baseline for the athlete or contestant, and the commission has been
provided with a copy of the brain imaging scan or EKG reports.
(vi) This subparagraph shall become inoperative on the date the
regulations adopted by the commission pursuant to subparagraph (B)
become operative.
(B) On and after January 1, 2008, all professional athletes
licensed under this chapter shall be required by the commission to
complete a medical examination process, which shall include the
completion of specific medical examinations, to be determined by the
commission through regulations, as a condition of initial licensure
and license renewal. This medical examination process may include
examinations required under current law and any additional medical
examinations determined to be medically necessary. In adopting the
medical examination process, the commission shall consider the health
and safety of contestants, the medical necessity of any examinations
required, and the financial aspects of requiring those medical
examinations.
(2) In the absence of any pertinent untoward medical event, the
commission may, in its discretion, on forms prescribed by the
commission, accept tests or evaluations that are equivalent to those
described in paragraph (1) and that have been completed within one
year of licensure to meet the requirements of this subdivision.
(3) (A) Any medical records obtained, reviewed, or created under
this chapter shall be utilized only for purposes of administering
this chapter. The commission and any physician may not disclose the
athlete's medical records without a signed authorization from the
athlete, except that the commission may disclose those records to
other state licensing boards and commissions to which the athlete has
applied for licensure or has an enforcement action pending, or upon
court order in a criminal or civil action.
(B) After the adoption of regulations to establish a process for
participating in medical research studies, the commission may use
medical information for purposes of participating in medical research
studies of the effects on the human body of contests and exhibitions
regulated under this chapter. However, medical information shall not
include any personal identifying information on any contestant,
including, but not limited to, the contestant's name, address,
telephone number, social security number, license number, federal
identification number, or any other information identifying the
contestant. The medical information shall only be provided if the
licensed athlete has consented in writing to participate in the
research study. The regulations adopted by the commission shall
include a process to ensure that no conflicts of interest arise
regarding which medical examinations are required to be completed by
contestants.
(b) If an applicant for licensure as a professional athlete under
this chapter undergoes a neurological examination for purposes of
licensure within the 120-day period immediately preceding the normal
expiration of that license, the applicant shall not be required to
undergo an additional neurological examination within the following
12 consecutive month license period unless the commission, for cause,
orders that the examination be taken. The commission shall notify
all commission-approved physicians and referees that the commission
has the authority to order any professional athlete to undergo a
neurological examination.
(c) The cost of the examinations required by this section shall be
paid from assessments on any one or more of the following: promoters
of professional matches, managers, and professional athletes or
other contestants licensed under this chapter. The rate and manner of
assessment shall be set by the commission, and may cover all costs
associated with the requirements of this section. This assessment
shall be imposed on all contests approved by the commission under
this chapter. As of July 1, 1994, all moneys received by the
commission pursuant to this section shall be deposited in and
credited to the State Athletic Commission Neurological Examination
Account which is hereby created in the General Fund.
(d) Whenever a reference is made to the Boxers' Neurological
Examination Account, it is to be construed as referring to the State
Athletic Commission Neurological Examination Account.
18712. (a) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, any person
applying for a license or the renewal of a license as a professional
boxer or as a professional martial arts fighter shall present
documentary evidence satisfactory to the commission that the
applicant has been administered a test, by a laboratory in the United
States that possesses a certificate under the Clinical Laboratory
Improvement Act (42 U.S.C. Sec. 263a), to detect the presence of
antibodies both to the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and to
hepatitis C virus (HCV) and to detect the presence of the antigen of
hepatitis B virus (HBV) within 30 days prior to the date of the
application and that the results of all three tests are negative. A
negative report for all three tests shall also be required of a
professional boxer or professional martial arts fighter prior to
competing in a match that will occur 180 days or more after the date
of the tests submitted for the issuance or renewal of his or her
license.
(b) Information received under this section and any other medical
information about an applicant or licensee shall be confidential and
not subject to discovery or subpoena. If the commission denies a
license or the renewal of a license or suspends or revokes a license
because of a licensee's HIV or HCV antibody status or HBV antigen
status, it shall state only that the action was taken for medical
reasons. An applicant or licensee may appeal the commission's denial,
suspension, or revocation of a license under this section. The
commission shall notify each person in writing of his or her right to
a closed hearing for that appeal. An applicant or licensee must make
a request for a hearing to the commission within 30 days of
receiving notification from the commission of the applicant's or
licensee's right to a hearing.
18714. For the purpose of studying and recommending medical and
safety standards for the conduct of boxing and martial arts, the
commission may call meetings of those licensed physicians and
surgeons as it deems necessary at such times and places it deems
appropriate. The commission is authorized to pay the necessary
traveling expenses and per diem, as provided in Section 103, to the
committee members in attendance at these meetings.
18720. (a) No boxing contest or match shall be more than 12 rounds
of not more than three minutes each in length, except that
championship contests may, if the written approval of the commission
is first obtained, be 15 rounds of not more than three minutes each
in length. The commission may limit the number of rounds in a contest
within the maximum.
(b) There shall be one minute rest between consecutive rounds.
18721. The commission may by rule specify the frequency with which
boxers may participate in a contest.
18723. All gloves used by contestants in professional and amateur
boxing contests or matches shall be approved by the commission and
constructed so that:
(a) The thumb is not detached from the glove in such a manner that
injury could result.
(b) The soft padding between the outside coverings shall be evenly
distributed over the back of the gloves, and cover the knuckles and
back of the hands.
(c) All paddings shall be consistent with the best available
material and technology in order to reduce the cumulative effects of
repetitive impacts.
18724. All professional and amateur boxing contests or matches
shall be performed on a ring floor and padding which meet at least
the following specifications:
(a) The ring floor shall be constructed of 1 1/4 inch plywood.
(b) The ring floor padding shall be of 1 3/4 inch thickness
consisting of closed cellular foam in combination with high density
polyvinylchloride (PVC) bonded together in solid sections, or
equivalent covering.
18725. In addition to the requirements of this act, the commission
may establish glove weights, equipment standards, safety standards,
and the length of rounds in order to protect the health and safety of
contestants.
18728. The commission shall establish by rule the weight spreads
and classes of contestants.
18730. A referee shall be in attendance and direct and control at
every boxing contest. Referees shall enforce the rules of the
commission at every boxing contest.
18731. No referee or physician shall be assigned to a boxing
contest who has not participated in a clinic sponsored by the
commission in accordance with this section in the preceding six
months.
Clinics shall include, among other things, the subjects of the
rules of the commission, the recognition and diagnosis of serious or
life-threatening, boxing-related and neurological injuries and
disorders, and refereeing a bout.
The commission is authorized to pay any necessary and authorized
travel expenses of referees and physicians who attend such clinics.
18732. Before starting a contest, the referee shall ascertain from
each contestant, the name of his or her chief second, and shall hold
such chief second responsible for the conduct of assistants during
the contest.
18733. The referee shall stop a contest when a contestant shows a
marked superiority, or is apparently outclassed.
18734. (a) The commission shall designate the scoring officials for
each contest.
(b) The referee may render a decision at the end of a boxing
contest if authorized by a representative of the commission.
(c) The commission may require that judges be used in conjunction
with the referee at any boxing contest.
18735. Referees and other boxing officials appointed by the
commission while performing duties required under this chapter by the
commission shall be entitled to the same rights and immunities
granted to public employees by the provisions of Article 3
(commencing with Section 820), Chapter 1, Part 2, Division 3.6, Title
1 of the Government Code. The provisions of this section shall not
be construed to affect, create, or destroy any rights or obligations
of any public or private employer of a referee or other boxing
official.
18738. (a) A boxer who intentionally hits a contestant with a
rabbit punch or with a punch on that part of the body over the
kidneys shall be penalized by the loss of a point for each such
punch.
(b) Determination that a boxer has violated this section shall be
made at the end of the round in which the violation occurred and
prior to the next round by the referee or, if judges are used in
conjunction with the referee, by any two officials. Upon such a
determination, each such official shall penalize the boxer pursuant
to subdivision (a).
(c) Upon a determination that this section has been violated, the
referee shall inform both boxers and their managers at the end of the
round in which the violation occurred and prior to the next round,
and inform the audience of the penalty thus assessed. In any such
case, the rest period may be extended by the referee.
18748. Recognizing the need for uniformity in championship
contests, the commission may exempt championship contests from any
provision of this chapter and authorize alternate provisions as long
as the safety and welfare of the boxers and the public are not
jeopardized.
18700. All buildings or structures used or intended to be used to
conduct, hold, give a contest or match, or exhibition shall be safe
and shall conform to the laws, ordinances, and regulations pertaining
to the buildings in the jurisdiction where the building or structure
is situated.
18701. There shall be posted in public view at every place that a
contest is held a notice in English and Spanish which states that it
is unlawful to throw any object in the direction of the ring.
18702. No person under the age of 18 years shall participate as a
contestant in any contest or match or exhibition, except that any
person 16 years or over may be licensed as an amateur and may
participate in an amateur contest or match.
18703. All admission tickets to any contest or exhibition shall
have printed clearly upon the face thereof the purchase price of the
ticket, and no ticket shall be sold for more than that price. The
tickets shall have the number of the ticket printed clearly on both
ends of the ticket.
18705. Every promoter shall have at its own expense in attendance
at every contest, a licensed physician approved by the commission who
has had not less than three years experience in the practice of
medicine since licensure, who shall perform the physical examination
of the contestants and observe the physical condition of the
contestants during the contest or match.
The services of the physician shall be paid according to a
schedule of fees adopted by the commission. The fees shall be paid by
the club to the commission, and it shall remit the payment to the
physician.
18705.5. The commission shall adopt regulations detailing the
criteria for approval of a licensed physician pursuant to Section
18705.
18706. (a) Not later than at the weigh-in time, which shall be not
more than 30 hours prior to the beginning of the first event, the
physician provided for in Section 18705 shall conduct a physical
examination of the contestant and certify in writing as to the
contestant's physical condition to engage in the contest or match.
(1) The commission shall make the contestants' medical records
available to the physician and the physician shall review the
contestant's medical records as part of the certification of the
contestant's physical condition.
(2) The physician shall determine whether the contestant may have
any knowledge, manifestations, symptoms, or prior history of a
physical condition that may affect the contestant's ability to
perform or present a potential threat to the contestant's health as a
result of competing in the contest or match. The contestant shall
complete a questionnaire developed by the commission. The contestant
shall be asked to disclose on the questionnaire any conditions of
which the contestant is aware, including, but not limited to, any of
the following:
(A) Significant weight gain or loss and any change in weight in
the seven days prior to the contest.
(B) Neuromuscular condition, including peripheral nerves, muscle
problems, and brain problems.
(C) Pregnancy.
(D) Bone fractures and all forms of arthritis.
(E) Any condition related to vision or changes in hearing
function.
(F) Heart condition or other cardiovascular condition.
(G) Pulmonary or respiratory condition.
(H) Renal or urological condition.
(I) Hematological condition, including manifestations of any
unusual bleeding or bruising.
If any condition is disclosed under this paragraph, the physician
shall not allow the contestant to compete unless the physician or, at
the contestant's discretion, the contestant's personal physician,
who is licensed to practice medicine in the United States, has
conducted a physical examination and determined that the specific
condition does not affect the contestant's ability to perform or
present a potential threat to the contestant's health as a result of
competing in the contest or match.
(3) The questionnaire shall be developed by the commission through
promulgated regulations in consultation with qualified medical
professionals.
(4) Nothing in this chapter may be construed to require a
contestant to submit to a pregnancy test.
(b) On the day of the event, and no later than one hour before the
contestants enter the ring, the physician provided for in Section
18705 shall conduct a brief reexamination and certify in writing as
to the contestant's physical condition to engage in the contest or
match. This reexamination shall include an evaluation of any
significant changes since the physical examination provided under
subdivision (a).
(c) A report of the medical examinations shall be filed with the
commission not later than 24 hours after the termination of the
contest or match. The physician's report of the examination shall
include specific mention as to the condition of the contestant's
heart, nerves and brain.
18707. A physician in attendance at any contest or match pursuant
to Section 18705 shall have the authority to stop any contest or
match that is conferred upon the referee. The physician's authority
shall be limited to a medically related injury and the physical
condition of a contestant.
18710. In its discretion, the commission may order a special
medical examination to be undertaken by any licensee, the report of
which shall be made to the commission. The cost of the examination
shall be shared equally by the commission and the licensee.
18711. (a) (1) (A) The commission shall require, as a condition of
licensure and as a part of the application process, the examination
by a licensed physician and surgeon who specializes in neurology and
neurosurgery of each applicant for a license as a professional
athlete or contestant licensed under this chapter or, if for the
renewal of a license, this examination every year, in addition to any
other medical examinations.
(i) Upon initial licensure, the examination shall include tests
and examinations designed to detect physical conditions that could
place the athlete or contestant at risk for serious injury or
permanent or temporary impairment of any bodily function. These tests
or examinations shall include, but not be limited to, a neurological
examination or a neuro-psychological examination, a brain imaging
scan, and an electrocardiogram (EKG). The physician may recommend any
additional tests or evaluations he or she deems necessary.
(ii) For renewal of a license, the physician shall determine the
tests or evaluations necessary, if any.
(iii) The commission may require an athlete or contestant licensed
under this chapter to undergo additional neurological tests where,
based on the totality of the athlete's or contestant's records, it
appears the athlete or contestant may be at risk of cognitive
impairment.
(iv) On the basis of a physical examination under this
subdivision, and any additional tests that are conducted, the
physician may recommend to the commission whether the applicant may
be permitted to be licensed in California or not. The executive
officer shall review these recommendations and report any denials of
licensure. If, as a result of these recommendations, the executive
officer refuses to grant the applicant a license or to renew a
license, the applicant shall not compete in California until the
denial has been overruled by the commission as provided in this
chapter.
(v) The commission may waive the requirement for a brain imaging
scan or an EKG if a brain imaging scan or EKG was completed as part
of the licensing requirements in another state, the commission
determines that this brain imaging scan or EKG creates a reliable
baseline for the athlete or contestant, and the commission has been
provided with a copy of the brain imaging scan or EKG reports.
(vi) This subparagraph shall become inoperative on the date the
regulations adopted by the commission pursuant to subparagraph (B)
become operative.
(B) On and after January 1, 2008, all professional athletes
licensed under this chapter shall be required by the commission to
complete a medical examination process, which shall include the
completion of specific medical examinations, to be determined by the
commission through regulations, as a condition of initial licensure
and license renewal. This medical examination process may include
examinations required under current law and any additional medical
examinations determined to be medically necessary. In adopting the
medical examination process, the commission shall consider the health
and safety of contestants, the medical necessity of any examinations
required, and the financial aspects of requiring those medical
examinations.
(2) In the absence of any pertinent untoward medical event, the
commission may, in its discretion, on forms prescribed by the
commission, accept tests or evaluations that are equivalent to those
described in paragraph (1) and that have been completed within one
year of licensure to meet the requirements of this subdivision.
(3) (A) Any medical records obtained, reviewed, or created under
this chapter shall be utilized only for purposes of administering
this chapter. The commission and any physician may not disclose the
athlete's medical records without a signed authorization from the
athlete, except that the commission may disclose those records to
other state licensing boards and commissions to which the athlete has
applied for licensure or has an enforcement action pending, or upon
court order in a criminal or civil action.
(B) After the adoption of regulations to establish a process for
participating in medical research studies, the commission may use
medical information for purposes of participating in medical research
studies of the effects on the human body of contests and exhibitions
regulated under this chapter. However, medical information shall not
include any personal identifying information on any contestant,
including, but not limited to, the contestant's name, address,
telephone number, social security number, license number, federal
identification number, or any other information identifying the
contestant. The medical information shall only be provided if the
licensed athlete has consented in writing to participate in the
research study. The regulations adopted by the commission shall
include a process to ensure that no conflicts of interest arise
regarding which medical examinations are required to be completed by
contestants.
(b) If an applicant for licensure as a professional athlete under
this chapter undergoes a neurological examination for purposes of
licensure within the 120-day period immediately preceding the normal
expiration of that license, the applicant shall not be required to
undergo an additional neurological examination within the following
12 consecutive month license period unless the commission, for cause,
orders that the examination be taken. The commission shall notify
all commission-approved physicians and referees that the commission
has the authority to order any professional athlete to undergo a
neurological examination.
(c) The cost of the examinations required by this section shall be
paid from assessments on any one or more of the following: promoters
of professional matches, managers, and professional athletes or
other contestants licensed under this chapter. The rate and manner of
assessment shall be set by the commission, and may cover all costs
associated with the requirements of this section. This assessment
shall be imposed on all contests approved by the commission under
this chapter. As of July 1, 1994, all moneys received by the
commission pursuant to this section shall be deposited in and
credited to the State Athletic Commission Neurological Examination
Account which is hereby created in the General Fund.
(d) Whenever a reference is made to the Boxers' Neurological
Examination Account, it is to be construed as referring to the State
Athletic Commission Neurological Examination Account.
18712. (a) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, any person
applying for a license or the renewal of a license as a professional
boxer or as a professional martial arts fighter shall present
documentary evidence satisfactory to the commission that the
applicant has been administered a test, by a laboratory in the United
States that possesses a certificate under the Clinical Laboratory
Improvement Act (42 U.S.C. Sec. 263a), to detect the presence of
antibodies both to the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and to
hepatitis C virus (HCV) and to detect the presence of the antigen of
hepatitis B virus (HBV) within 30 days prior to the date of the
application and that the results of all three tests are negative. A
negative report for all three tests shall also be required of a
professional boxer or professional martial arts fighter prior to
competing in a match that will occur 180 days or more after the date
of the tests submitted for the issuance or renewal of his or her
license.
(b) Information received under this section and any other medical
information about an applicant or licensee shall be confidential and
not subject to discovery or subpoena. If the commission denies a
license or the renewal of a license or suspends or revokes a license
because of a licensee's HIV or HCV antibody status or HBV antigen
status, it shall state only that the action was taken for medical
reasons. An applicant or licensee may appeal the commission's denial,
suspension, or revocation of a license under this section. The
commission shall notify each person in writing of his or her right to
a closed hearing for that appeal. An applicant or licensee must make
a request for a hearing to the commission within 30 days of
receiving notification from the commission of the applicant's or
licensee's right to a hearing.
18714. For the purpose of studying and recommending medical and
safety standards for the conduct of boxing and martial arts, the
commission may call meetings of those licensed physicians and
surgeons as it deems necessary at such times and places it deems
appropriate. The commission is authorized to pay the necessary
traveling expenses and per diem, as provided in Section 103, to the
committee members in attendance at these meetings.
18720. (a) No boxing contest or match shall be more than 12 rounds
of not more than three minutes each in length, except that
championship contests may, if the written approval of the commission
is first obtained, be 15 rounds of not more than three minutes each
in length. The commission may limit the number of rounds in a contest
within the maximum.
(b) There shall be one minute rest between consecutive rounds.
18721. The commission may by rule specify the frequency with which
boxers may participate in a contest.
18723. All gloves used by contestants in professional and amateur
boxing contests or matches shall be approved by the commission and
constructed so that:
(a) The thumb is not detached from the glove in such a manner that
injury could result.
(b) The soft padding between the outside coverings shall be evenly
distributed over the back of the gloves, and cover the knuckles and
back of the hands.
(c) All paddings shall be consistent with the best available
material and technology in order to reduce the cumulative effects of
repetitive impacts.
18724. All professional and amateur boxing contests or matches
shall be performed on a ring floor and padding which meet at least
the following specifications:
(a) The ring floor shall be constructed of 1 1/4 inch plywood.
(b) The ring floor padding shall be of 1 3/4 inch thickness
consisting of closed cellular foam in combination with high density
polyvinylchloride (PVC) bonded together in solid sections, or
equivalent covering.
18725. In addition to the requirements of this act, the commission
may establish glove weights, equipment standards, safety standards,
and the length of rounds in order to protect the health and safety of
contestants.
18728. The commission shall establish by rule the weight spreads
and classes of contestants.
18730. A referee shall be in attendance and direct and control at
every boxing contest. Referees shall enforce the rules of the
commission at every boxing contest.
18731. No referee or physician shall be assigned to a boxing
contest who has not participated in a clinic sponsored by the
commission in accordance with this section in the preceding six
months.
Clinics shall include, among other things, the subjects of the
rules of the commission, the recognition and diagnosis of serious or
life-threatening, boxing-related and neurological injuries and
disorders, and refereeing a bout.
The commission is authorized to pay any necessary and authorized
travel expenses of referees and physicians who attend such clinics.
18732. Before starting a contest, the referee shall ascertain from
each contestant, the name of his or her chief second, and shall hold
such chief second responsible for the conduct of assistants during
the contest.
18733. The referee shall stop a contest when a contestant shows a
marked superiority, or is apparently outclassed.
18734. (a) The commission shall designate the scoring officials for
each contest.
(b) The referee may render a decision at the end of a boxing
contest if authorized by a representative of the commission.
(c) The commission may require that judges be used in conjunction
with the referee at any boxing contest.
18735. Referees and other boxing officials appointed by the
commission while performing duties required under this chapter by the
commission shall be entitled to the same rights and immunities
granted to public employees by the provisions of Article 3
(commencing with Section 820), Chapter 1, Part 2, Division 3.6, Title
1 of the Government Code. The provisions of this section shall not
be construed to affect, create, or destroy any rights or obligations
of any public or private employer of a referee or other boxing
official.
18738. (a) A boxer who intentionally hits a contestant with a
rabbit punch or with a punch on that part of the body over the
kidneys shall be penalized by the loss of a point for each such
punch.
(b) Determination that a boxer has violated this section shall be
made at the end of the round in which the violation occurred and
prior to the next round by the referee or, if judges are used in
conjunction with the referee, by any two officials. Upon such a
determination, each such official shall penalize the boxer pursuant
to subdivision (a).
(c) Upon a determination that this section has been violated, the
referee shall inform both boxers and their managers at the end of the
round in which the violation occurred and prior to the next round,
and inform the audience of the penalty thus assessed. In any such
case, the rest period may be extended by the referee.
18748. Recognizing the need for uniformity in championship
contests, the commission may exempt championship contests from any
provision of this chapter and authorize alternate provisions as long
as the safety and welfare of the boxers and the public are not
jeopardized.
