In our continuing effort to engage British Columbians in the decision-making process, Bill Bennett, Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development is announcing the launch of a new website where you can provide input on how the role of the Provincial Athletic Commissioner should be structured.

The Athletic Commissioner Act (Bill 50) http://www.leg.bc.ca/39th4th/3rd_read/gov50-3.htm was passed on May 30, 2012. The act provides for a Provincial Athletic Commissioner to regulate and supervise professional contests that feature mixed martial arts, boxing, kickboxing and Muay Thai kickboxing.

The key duties of the commissioner will be to:

• Establish a consistent standard of qualifications and safety protocols for all participants and officials through a uniform licensing and permitting framework.
• Ensure compliance with the act and its regulations.

In order to implement the act and establish the Commissioner's Office, regulations that set out the policies and procedures of the act must be approved by the B.C. government. The public is encouraged to provide input through the website on topics such as: the structure and operations of the Commissioner's Office; the types of rules that will be followed for contests; the licensing framework; the fees to obtain licenses and permits; and the medical requirements for the contestants. Individuals interested in contributing input on these topics can do so at: http://www.cscd.gov.bc.ca/sport/programs/athletic_commission.htm where a consultation paper and survey are posted.

Quote:

Community, Sport and Cultural Development Minister Bill Bennett -

"Many British Columbians enjoy combat sports such as boxing, kickboxing and mixed martial arts but want to know rules are in place to keep competitors safe. Through this new website, we are asking British Columbians to provide their comments on the rules that will govern these competitions. Once the rules are in place, the commission will be up and running, and we will be in a position to attract the economic benefits these increasingly popular events create."

Quick Facts:

• This act does not apply to amateur contests and events that feature these sports.
• At least nine B.C. municipalities currently have athletic commissions. When the B.C. government establishes an athletic commissioner, both the Community Charter and Vancouver Charter will be amended to remove the authority to create local commissions.
• If local governments do not want such contests to take place in their communities, they will be able to prohibit these events by passing a bylaw.
• A commissioner will be appointed once the regulations are in place and the Athletic Commissioner Act takes effect. It is anticipated this will be in early 2013.

Learn More:

To learn more about the Provincial Athletic Commissioner or to provide input, go to: http://www.cscd.gov.bc.ca/sport/programs/athletic_commission.htm

Media Contact:

Jeff Rud
Communications Director
Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development
250 208-4028