County Government Association endorses bill to legalize MMA
County Government Association endorses bill to legalize MMA
Acquario Says Fertitta’s Announced Plans for Upstate Shows Will Generate Millions for Counties Across New York
Lorenzo Fertitta, UFC® Chairman & CEO, today praised the New York State Association of Counties (NYSAC) for its support of A.2604 (Morelle) / S.2159 (Griffo), to legalize mixed martial arts (MMA) in New York State. New York remains the only place in all of North American where professional MMA is illegal.
Steve Acquario, Executive Director of NYSAC, said, “This legislation provides an important economic opportunity for New York State and local governments. This bill would provide for professional MMA exhibitions to take place in New York, making use of the many suitable local arenas and venues that operate throughout the State.”
Acquario highlighted the economic benefits for local governments throughout the state. “This will provide increased opportunities for economic growth, boosting local economies through increased revenue from sales tax and hotel and motel taxes. Legalization of MMA would also increase tourism as it boosts New York’s status as a world class destination for sports and recreational activities.”
“NYSAC clearly understands what legalizing and regulating MMA in New York would mean for the state in terms of increased economic activity. Revenues for the state and local governments, jobs – union jobs in the arenas and many of the hospitality venues – more out-of-state and international tourists coming to New York to see some of the most exciting sporting events in the world,” Fertitta said.
“Many New Yorkers have heard me say this but I think it’s worth repeating: the UFC is eager to have our New York champions – Jon Jones and Chris Weidman – compete in front of their families and local fans. We also want our other talented New York athletes to have the ability to compete in their communities across the state. Events in Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, Albany, and New York City – as well as other venues in the state – will draw fans from states and countries far and wide to come to New York,” Fertitta said. “When they do, they’ll stay in local hotels, eat in local restaurants and shop at local stores.”
Acquario praised Fertitta’s upstate plans.
“I’m delighted that the UFC recognizes all of the venues we offer throughout this great state. They know that holding events throughout New York is good for their brand, is good for their fans and is good for our local economies,” Acquario said.
