The purpose and effect of the proposed rules is to set forth the obligations of amateur licensees licensed under Chapter 548, F.S., and applicants for licensure as amateur sanctioning organizations under chapter 548, F.S. by moving the requirements ...

DEPARTMENT OF BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONAL REGULATION
State Boxing Commission

RULE NO.: RULE TITLE:
61K1-4.001: Criteria for Approval and Denial for Amateur Sanctioning Organization in Boxing, Kickboxing, and Mixed Martial Arts
61K1-4.002: Insurance Requirements.
61K1-4.004: National Database Event Registration.
61K1-4.005: Referee ReRequirements.
61K1-4.006: Weigh-In.
61K1-4.007: Boxing Weight Classes.
61K1-4.009: Boxing Bandages and Handwraps.
61K1-4.011: Boxing Conduct Bout.
61K1-4.012: Boxing Weight Classes.
61K1-4.013: Kickboxing Apparel.
61K1-4.014: Kickboxing Bandages and Handwraps.
61K1-4.015: Kickingboxing Gloves.
61K1-4.016: Kickboxing Conduct of Bout.
61K1-4.017: Mixed Martial Arts Weight Classes.
61K1-4.018: Mixed Martial Arts Apparel.
61K1-4.019: Mixed Martial Arts Bandages and Handwraps.
61K1-4.020: Mixed Martial Arts Gloves.
61K1-4.021: Mixed Martial Arts Conduct Bout.
61K1-4.022: Notice of Suspension for Failure to Supervise or Enforce the Approved Health and Safety Standards.
61K1-4.023: Kickboxing Bandages and Handwraps; Gloves
61K1-4.024: Mixed Martial Arts Weight Classes; Weigh-In
61K1-4.025: Mixed Martial Arts Conduct of Bout; Rounds
61K1-4.026: Mixed Martial Arts Apparel
61K1-4.027: Mixed Martial Arts Bandages and Handwraps; Gloves
PURPOSE AND EFFECT: The purpose and effect of the proposed rules is to set forth the obligations of amateur licensees licensed under Chapter 548, F.S., and applicants for licensure as amateur sanctioning organizations under chapter 548, F.S. by moving the requirements to a chapter designated strictly for amateur licensees and updating the rules to match industry standards.
SUMMARY: The proposed rules set forth the obligations of amateur licensees licensed under Chapter 548, F.S., and applicants for licensure as amateur sanctioning organizations under chapter 548, F.S. by moving the requirements to a chapter designated strictly for amateur licensees and updating the rules to match industry standards.
SUMMARY OF STATEMENT OF ESTIMATED REGULATORY COSTS AND LEGISLATIVE RATIFICATION:
The Agency has determined that this will not have an adverse impact on small business or likely increase directly or indirectly regulatory costs in excess of $200,000 in the aggregate within one year after the implementation of the rule. A SERC has not been prepared by the agency.
The Agency has determined that the proposed rule is not expected to require legislative ratification based on the statement of estimated regulatory costs or if no SERC is required, the information expressly relied upon and described herein: The Commission conducted an analysis of the proposed rule’s potential economic impact and determined that it did not exceed any of the criteria established in Section 120.541(2)(a), F.S.
Any person who wishes to provide information regarding a statement of estimated regulatory costs, or provide a proposal for a lower cost regulatory alternative must do so in writing within 21 days of this notice.
RULEMAKING AUTHORITY: 120.695, 548.003(2), 548.075 FS.
LAW IMPLEMENTED: 120.695, 548.003, 548.004, 548.006, 548.0065, 548.007, 548.008, 548.011, 548.012, 548.013, 548.014, 548.017, 548.021, 548.025, 548.026, 548.028, 548.032, 548.035, 548.043, 548.046, 548.057, 548.066, 548.07, 548.071, 548.075 FS.
IF REQUESTED WITHIN 21 DAYS OF THE DATE OF THIS NOTICE, A HEARING WILL BE SCHEDULED AND ANNOUNCED IN THE FAR.
THE PERSON TO BE CONTACTED REGARDING THE PROPOSED RULE IS: R. Kathleen Brown-Blake, Assistant General Counsel, Office of the General Counsel, 1940 North Monroe Street, Suite 42, Tallahassee, Florida 32399, (850) 717-1244.

THE FULL TEXT OF THE PROPOSED RULE IS:

61K1-4.001 Amateur Sanctioning Organization Licensure, Criteria for Approval and Denial.

(1) License; Requirement, Procedure and Period, Fee.

(a) Each approved amateur sanctioning organization shall be licensed by the commission. To be licensed and obtain approval by the commission, each amateur sanctioning organization shall apply for licensure. Licensed amateur sanctioning organizations shall be given the same rights and obligations as any other licensed entities and/or individuals granted licensure by the commission.

(b) Licenses/Approvals for amateur sanctioning organizations, including any rights, privileges, responsibilities, duties, obligations, or liabilities which by their nature are entitled to or encumbered by the amateur sanctioning organization shall not be transferred, including by the use of a power of attorney.

1. Application for licensure approval as an Amateur Sanctioning Organization shall be submitted on Form DBPR-FSBC - 01, “Application for Amateur Sanctioning Organization”, effective October 2010, adopted and incorporated, which may be obtained on the “Boxing, Kickboxing, & Mixed Martial Arts” link at https://www.myfloridalicense.com/intentions2.asp, or at _________________________________. The application shall be accompanied by any required supplemental information and by the licensure fee.

2. Upon receipt of an application for a license, the application shall be reviewed by the commission for approval or denial and, if the application is in compliance with the requirements of Chapter 548, F.S., and the rules adopted by the commission, a license shall be issued. If it is determined that the application is not in compliance, the applicant shall be notified by way of a Notice of Intent to Deny.

3. A license issued pursuant to Chapter 548, F.S., and these rules shall be valid from the date of issuance until December 31 of the year in which the license was effective. An application for the renewal of a license shall be submitted on the same form as referenced above and all of the requirements, standards, and criteria used to approve or disapprove an application for a new or initial license shall be used to approve or disapprove the application for the renewal of a license.

4. If a licensee changes it’s name or other legally identifying information, the licensee shall reapply for licensure with the commission.

(2) Criteria for Application.

(a) An amateur sanctioning organization seeking approval from the Florida State Boxing commission to sanction and supervise matches shall provide the following during the application process:

1. A completed application for licensure, clearly indicating which sport the amateur sanctioning organization will be sanctioning.

2. Applications for approval of an amateur sanctioning organization shall specify boxing, kickboxing, or mixed martial arts. Accordingly, any approval shall be limited to the sport for which the amateur sanctioning organization has applied to obtain a license. An organization seeking approval for one or more of the aforementioned sports shall submit a separate application for each sport.

3. A statement of agreement to adopt and enforce the requirements set forth in Chapter 548, F.S. and the Rules promulgated thereto.

4. A complete record of any criminal history of the officers, trustees, partners, directors, or owners in the amateur sanctioning organization. The commission shall not issue a license to any entity that has officers, trustees, partners, directors, or owners in the amateur sanctioning organization, who have been convicted of any act that constitutes a violation of Chapter 548, F.S. or any crime involving moral turpitude. Ownership includes all persons who provide financial support for the amateur sanctioning organization in an amount greater than or equal to 10% of the budget for the fiscal year.

5. A complete licensure history in Florida and any other jurisdiction, including license verification submitted from the state or other jurisdiction in which the amateur sanctioning organization is licensed.

6. A statement of agreement to adopt and enforce a requirement that in matches sanctioned and supervised by the amateur sanctioning organization all participating amateurs must undergo a pre-match physical examination by a physician licensed as an M.D. or D.O., approved by the amateur sanctioning organization according to the criteria provided in this rule.

7. A statement of agreement that the organization will not hold, promote, or sponsor a match prohibited under Chapter 548, F.S.

8. Documentation evidencing the amateur sanctioning organization has a legal existence, it is incorporated or otherwise legally recognized under the laws of its domicile and is authorized to conduct business in Florida under the Florida Department of State.

9. A copy of the organization’s standards, policies, or procedures evidencing that the principals of the organization have sufficient background, training, and experience in sanctioning and supervising matches which will adequately protect the health and safety of the amateurs participating in the matches and the public. These standards are for application review for approval or denial only, and must be in compliance with the rules adopted by the commission. Modifications to an amateur sanctioning organization’s rules does not negate an amateur sanctioning organization’s responsibility to comply with the rules as adopted by the commission.

10. A license fee of $100.00 fee to be submitted with each application for licensure. If the amateur sanctioning organization applies for licensure in more than one sport, the $100.00 fee shall be provided for each application for each sport.

(b) The organization, should they be granted licensure, shall continue to abide by and enforce the rules adopted by the commission.

(3) Upon the receipt of an application for approval by the commission, the amateur sanctioning organization shall not be eligible to use the exemptions to Section 548, F.S. listed under Section 548.007 F.S.

(4) The amateur sanctioning organization shall ensure that all matches occur according to Section 548, F.S. and the rules promulgated thereto.

(5) If an amateur sanctioning organization changes its name or any other legally identifying information, it shall notify the commission within 60 days of the change.

(6) Denial of application.

(a) The application of an amateur sanctioning organization that does not meet the criteria specified by rule shall be denied by the commission, its executive director, or it’s designee.

(b) The commission shall not issue a license or approval to any entity with officers, trustees, partners, directors, or owners in the applicant organization, who individually had a license or approval issued by the commission or equivalent licensing authority of another state revoked, suspended, or otherwise acted against. Ownership includes all persons who provide financial support for the amateur sanctioning organization in an amount greater than or equal to 10% of the budget for the fiscal year.

(c) The commission shall not issue a license or approval to any entity with officers, trustees, partners, directors, or owners in the applicant organization, who have been officers, trustees, partners, directors, or owners in an amateur sanctioning organization which had a license or approval issued by the commission or equivalent licensing authority of another state revoked, suspended, or otherwise acted against. Ownership includes all persons who provide financial support for the amateur sanctioning organization in an amount greater than or equal to 10% of the budget for the fiscal year.

(d) The commission, executive director, or it’s designee, may deny the application for one or more of the following reasons:

1. If the information provided evidences that the principals of the amateur sanctioning organization do not have the required experience or training to safely sanction or supervise matches.

2. If any of the organizations officers, partners, officials, authorized representatives, or persons with a financial interest in the organization have criminal history evidencing fraud, theft, crimes of moral turpitude, or any crime that would constitute as a violation of Chapter 548, F.S.

3. If the application is incomplete and the organization fails to provide missing information in a timely manner.

4. If the application indicates that the organization will operate in violation of Section 548, F.S. or the rules adopted by the commission.

5. If the information provided in the application otherwise indicates that approval of the amateur sanctioning organization would pose a risk to the health, safety, or wellbeing of amateurs or the general public.

6. If the amateur sanctioning organization fails to pay the licensure fee.

Rulemaking Authority 548.003(2) FS. Law Implemented 548.003, 548.006, 548.008 548.011, 548.012, 548.013, 548.014, 548.017, 548.021, 548.025, 548.026, 548.028, 548.032, 548.035, 548.046, 548.057, 548.066 FS. History–New________.

61K1-4.002 Compliance Checks.

(1) Compliance checks may be conducted on each amateur sanctioning organization at least once every six (6) months unless the Department receives notice of a possible violation of Chapter 548, F.S. or the rules adopted by the commission.

(2) The Executive Director shall designate authority to perform compliance checks on the Department’s investigators and any individual designated by the Department or the Executive Director to perform a compliance check.

(3) For the purposes of this rule, the Executive Director may designate any of the following individuals to assist during compliance checks:

1. Referees currently or formerly licensed under Chapter 548, F.S;

2. Judges currently or formerly licensed under Chapter 548, F.S;

3. Timekeepers currently or formerly licensed under Chapter 548, F.S;

4. Inspectors currently or formerly licensed under Chapter 548, F.S;

5. Ringside physicians currently or formerly licensed under Chapter 548, F.S;

6. Commission staff;

7. Commission legal counsel;

8. Department legal counsel;

9. Commissioners.

10. Chief inspectors.

(4) Amateur sanctioning organizations shall allow any individuals designated by the Executive Director to conduct compliance checks full access to the site of an event or match, including dressing rooms.

Rulemaking Authority 548.003(2) FS. Law Implemented 548.003, 548.0065(3) FS. History– New ______.

61K1-4.004 Emergency Medical Equipment; Other Requirements

(1) Emergency Medical Equipment and Services.

(a) It shall be the responsibility of the amateur sanctioning organization to ensure the following emergency medical equipment is available and present at each amateur match:

1. A portable resuscitator with all additional equipment necessary for its operation;

2. A clean backboard, a neck-brace, and clean blanket, to be located along with the ambulance attendants at ringside.

3. One portable oxygen supply shall be present at ringside;

(b) No match shall begin or continue unless such equipment is on the premises, in a state of readiness and in a pre-designated readily accessible location known to the referee, physicians and the amateur sanctioning organization supervisor.

(2) Other Equipment and Services.

(a) It shall be the responsibility of the amateur sanctioning organization to ensure the presence of a person or persons capable of making emergency repairs, corrections and adjustments to the ring, lights and other necessary fixtures at all times during the progress of a program of matches.

(b) The amateur sanctioning organization shall ensure that all food and beverages around the ring are dispensed in paper or plastic plates or cups and that only plastic utensils are provided.

(d) If locker rooms are provided, an amateur sanctioning organization representative shall supervise all locker-room activity according to the following minimum protocols;

1. Only water and approved electrolyte drinks in their sealed original container are permitted in the locker room. No food, vitamins, or supplements of any kind are permitted in the locker room, with the exception of produce.

2. The presence of any alcohol, “energy” drinks, controlled substances or any illegal enhancing substance in the possession of amateurs, any representative of the amateurs or any representative of the amateur sanctioning organization is grounds for suspension of the amateur sanctioning organization’s license and immediate cancellation of the match.

3. Only amateurs scheduled to compete, individuals working their corners, and amateur sanctioning organization representatives working the event are permitted in locker room. Exceptions require prior permission of the sanctioning organization supervisor.

4. Amateur sanctioning organizations shall ensure that amateurs are provided separate dressing rooms for male and female amateurs.

Rulemaking Authority 548.003 FS. Law Implemented 548.003, 548.006, 548.032, 548.046, 548.057 FS. History–New________.

61K1-4.005 Arena Equipment Requirements; Ring Requirements; and Fenced Area Requirements.

(1) Ring Requirements:

(a) The ring shall be not less than 18 feet nor more than 22 feet square inside the ropes.

(b) The ring floor or apron shall extend beyond the ropes not less than 18 inches.

(c) The ring shall be formed of four posts and at least four ropes for boxing and kickboxing, except for San Shou or Sanda style kickboxing. The ring shall be formed of four posts and at least five ropes for San Shou or Sanda style kickboxing and mixed martial arts. The ropes shall extend in parallel lines 18, 30, 42, and 54 inches in height above the ring floor. The top three ropes shall be not less than 1 inch in diameter, and the lowest rope shall be not less than 1 1/2 inches in diameter. The lowest rope must be no higher than twelve inches from the ring floor. All ropes shall be wrapped in velvet or other similarly soft material. Ropes shall be properly adjusted and sufficiently taut to inhibit the amateurs from falling between the ropes. All five ring ropes must be secured to each other in no less than two places on all four sides of the ring. The juncture of the ropes at each corner shall be padded with at least an inch and one half of foam rubber or other similar padding.

(d) Ring posts shall be not less than 3 inches in diameter and shall extend from the floor of the ring to a height of no more than 58 inches.

(e) The ring platform shall not be more than 4 feet above the surrounding floor and shall be provided with steps for use of the amateur in each amateur’s corner. Steps shall also be provided in a neutral corner for use by the announcer, referee, round card carrier and physicians.

(f) The ring platform shall not be less than twelve (12) feet below the surrounding ceiling.

(g) The ring floor, both inside and outside the ropes, shall be padded to a thickness of at least 1 inch and the padding shall consist of a soft material such as “Ensolite Ring Pad” or similar material applied over a 1-inch base of Celotex building board number two or a material which has similar impact absorbing characteristics. There shall be a top covering of canvas, duck, or equivalent material tightly stretched and laced to the ring platform.

(h) If the match or program of matches is being held outdoors, the ring, apron and seating for all officials shall be protected from inclement weather by use of a heavy duty weatherproof tarpaulin or cover of similar material. The covering shall be erected in such a manner as to ensure that the ring, apron and seating do not become wet. Under no circumstances will the referee, amateur sanctioning organization representative, or the commission representative allow a match to continue if the condition of the ring floor deteriorates such that its condition poses a hazard to the amateurs or the referee.

(i) The amateur sanctioning organization shall insure that the front row of spectator seating is no closer than six (6) feet from the back of the officials’ seats.

(2) Kickboxing and Mixed Martial Arts Fenced Area Requirements:

(a) The fenced area shall not be less than 18 feet wide nor more than 32 feet wide inside the fencing;

(b) The fenced area within the fencing must be padded with Ensolite or another similar closed-cell foam with at least a 1 inch layer of foam padding;

(c) The fenced area padding must be covered with canvas, duck or similar material tightly stretched and laced to the platform. Any covering that is slippery or deemed by the amateur sanctioning organization representative or any commission representative as unsafe will not be allowed. Material that tends to gather in lumps or ridges must not be used;

(d) The fenced area platform must not be more than 4 feet above the surrounding floor and shall be provided with steps for use of the amateurs. In addition to the amateurs’ steps, a neutral set of steps shall also be provided for use by the announcer, referee, round card carrier and physicians;

(e) Ring posts shall be made of metal with dimensions of not less than 3 inches nor more than 6 inches in diameter and shall extend from the floor of the building to a height of no less than 60 inches nor more than 84 inches above the floor of the fenced area. Ring posts must be properly padded in a manner approved by the commission. Ring posts padding shall not include abrasive, sharp or potentially injuring materials;

(f) Fencing must be made of a material that will prevent an amateur from falling out of the fenced area or breaking through the fenced area onto the floor of the building or onto the spectators, including, without limitation, chain link fence coated with vinyl;

(g) Any metal portion of the fenced area must be covered and padded in a manner approved by the amateur sanctioning organization representative and must not be abrasive to the amateurs;

(h) When the fenced area is comprised of equal sections or panels of fencing, metal tubing or pipes are permissible along the outer dimensions or perimeter of the panels for structural purposes. No metal tubing or pipes are allowed within each individual panel running horizontally or vertically from one panel perimeter to another. Each panel should have four sides with no metal tubing or pipes within each individual square;

(i) There must not be an obstruction on any part of the fence surrounding the fenced area in which the amateurs are competing.

(j) Each door must be secured by a latch and pin mechanism or another approved dual locking system.

Rulemaking Authority 548.003 FS. Law Implemented 548.003(2), 548.006, 548.032, 548.046, 548.057 FS. History–New________.

61K1-4.007 Insurance Requirements.

(1) Amateur sanctioning organizations are required to ensure that each event promoter has secured the following:

(a). Health and Accidental Death Benefit Policy for Athletes of $10,000 minimum.

(b) General liability insurance policy naming sanctioning body as co-insured of $1 million per claim/$2 million aggregate minimum.

(2) Claim forms with the promoter information and policy numbers already written on them shall be provided to the ringside physician prior to the start of the event.

(3) Amateur sanctioning organizations are required to ensure that insurance is valid through the duration of the match.

(4) Amateur Sanctioning organizations shall provide proof of insurance to commission representatives if requested.

(5) The amateur sanctioning organization representative or commission representative shall prevent any match from beginning if the amateur sanctioning organization does not possess proof of insurance at the start of any event.

Rulemaking Authority 548.003(2) FS. Law Implemented 548.003, 548.006, 548.006, FS. History–New________.

61K1-4.009 Post-Match Physical of Amateur.

(1) Following each match, each amateur shall be examined by a physician licensed as an M.D. or D.O. The physician shall certify in writing the amateur’s physical condition and a professional assessment as to whether or not the amateur may need further medical treatment at a hospital.

(2) Ringside physicians shall have a suitable place or room in which to make their examinations after each match.

(3) The examination given all amateurs shall address the following:

(a) Any injuries sustained during the match;

(b) Dehydration;

(d) Vision,

(e) The need to prepare a suspension form, suspending the amateur from participating in future matches until cleared by a physician.

Rulemaking Authority 548.003 FS. Law Implemented 548.006, 548.043, 548.046, 548.071, 548.075 FS. History–New________.

61K1-4.011 Unprofessional or Unethical Conduct.

Unprofessional or unethical conduct, for amateur sanctioning organizations, as described in Section 548.071(4), FS, shall include:

(1) Making a misleading, deceptive, or fraudulent representation in or related to the practice of the licensee’s profession;

(2) Misappropriating, misallocating, or mismanaging funds in relation to the practice of the licensee’s profession;

(3) Delegating or contracting for the performance of professional responsibility by a person when the licensee delegating or contracting for performance of such responsibilities knows, or has reason to know, such person is not qualified by training, experience, and authorization when required to perform them;

(4) Falsifying or altering of records, applications, contracts, or other documents in the practice of the licensee’s profession;

(5) Practicing or offering to practice beyond the scope permitted by law or accepting and performing the professional responsibilities the licensee knows, or has reason to know, the licensee is not competent and/or properly licensed to perform;

(6) Discriminating on the basis of race, creed, religion, sex, age, or national origin, in the in the practice of a licensee’s profession as it relates to human rights and dignity of the individuals;

(7) Exercising influence on any person in the practice of a licensee’s profession for the purpose of financial gain of the licensee or a third party;

(8) Failing to report in writing to the commission or to the department within 30 days after any officers, trustees, partners, directors, or owners is convicted or found guilty of, or entered a plea of nolo contendere or guilty to, regardless of adjudication, a crime in any jurisdiction. A licensee must report the conviction, finding of guilt, plea, or adjudication entered before the effective date of this paragraph within 30 days after the effective date of this paragraph.

(9) Impersonating another licensed practitioner, or permitting another person to use his or her license;

(10) Providing false or incorrect information regarding the status of the license;

(11) Failing to perform any statutory or legal obligation or attempting to violate any statutory or legal requirement placed upon a licensee;

(12) Aiding, assisting, procuring, employing, or advising any unlicensed person or entity to practice a profession contrary to the chapter regulating the profession, or the Rules of the department or the commission;

(13) Attempting to obtain, obtaining, or renewing a licensee to practice a profession by bribery, by fraudulent misrepresentation, or through an error of the department or the commission;

(14) Violating any rule adopted by the commission or the department;

(15) Improperly interfering with an investigation or inspection authorized by statute, or with any disciplinary proceeding;

(16) Repeatedly violating health and safety standards as laid out in these rules, or permitting other licensees or other individuals to repeatedly violate health and safety standards as laid out in these rules;

(17) Refusing access to an event or program, or full access to the site of an event or match, including dressing rooms to any individuals designated by the Department or executive director to conduct compliance checks or investigations;

(18) Having a license or the authority to practice a profession revoked, suspended, or otherwise acted against, including the denial of licensure, by the licensing authority of any jurisdiction, including its agencies or subdivisions, for a violation that would constitute a violation under Florida law. The licensing authority’s acceptance of a relinquishment of licensure, stipulation, consent order, or other settlement, offered in response to or in anticipation of the filing of charges against the license, shall be construed as action against the license;

(19) Failing to report a change of address or other legally identifiable information to the Department within thirty (30) days of the date that the address or information was changed,

Rulemaking Authority 548.003 FS. Law Implemented 548.003(2), 548.071 FS. History–New________.

61K1-4.012 Citations.

(1) Definitions. As used in this rule;

(a) “Citation” means an instrument which is served upon a subject for the purpose of assessing a penalty in an amount established by this rule;

(b) “Subject” means the licensee, applicant, person, partnership, corporation, or other entity alleged to have committed a violation designated in this rule.

(2) In lieu of the disciplinary procedures contained in Section 548.071, F.S., the Department is hereby authorized to dispose of any violation designated herein by issuing a citation to the subject within six months after the filing of the complaint which is the basis for the citation.

(3) Citations shall be issued for the first offense violations only unless otherwise specified.

(4) The commission hereby designates possession of improper equipment or apparel, and/or failure to have the proper equipment or apparel as a citation violation for amateur sanctioning organizations, which shall result in a penalty of twenty-five dollars ($25.00).

(5) The commission hereby designates the unlicensed practice of sanctioning or supervising an amateur match governed by Chapter 548, F.S. as a citable violation that carries a penalty of a fine of $1,000, and costs of the investigation for first offense.

(6) The commission hereby designates the unlicensed practice of sanctioning or supervising an amateur match governed by Chapter 548, F.S. as a citable violation that carries a penalty of a fine of $2,500, and costs of the investigation for the second offense.

Rulemaking Authority 548.003, 548.075 FS. Law Implemented 548.003(2), 548.07, 548.075 FS. History–New________.

61K1-4.013 Notices of Non-Compliance.

(1) In accordance with Section 120.695(1), F.S., the agency shall provide a licensee with a notice of non compliance for an initial offense of a minor violation. Failure of a licensee to take action in correcting the violation within 15 days after notice may result in the institution of regular disciplinary proceedings. “Minor violations” as used in Section 120.695(1), F.S., are defined as follows:

(a) Apparel violations that do not constitute a safety risk to amateurs;

(b) Equipment violations that do not constitute a safety risk to amateurs;

(d) Locker room/Cage-side protocol violations that do not constitute a safety risk to amateurs.

Rulemaking Authority 120.695 FS. Law Implemented 120.695 FS. History–New________.

61K1-4.014 Records.

(1) All licensees shall maintain a full, true, and accurate set of books and records in connection with all licensed activities.

(a) The records shall be made at or near the time of the occurrence recorded by a person with knowledge of the matters recorded.

(b) These records and any other documents required by statute or commission rule shall be kept for at least five years and shall be open to inspection and audit by representatives of the department or commission upon reasonable notice.

(2) The following is a list that includes records that must be maintained by amateur sanctioning organizations holding matches:

(a) Amateur medical records related to weigh-in and pre-match physical requirements as set forth in Rule 61K1-7.007, F.A.C., that the amateurs submits to the amateur sanctioning organization prior to participating in matches;

(b) Bout cards;

(d) All documentation submitted to the commission for licensure and permit approval;

(e) HIPAA Medical Records Release obtained from amateurs related to medical records obtained prior to participating in matches;

(f) Documentation evidencing referees’ and physicians’ qualifications.

(3) The following is a list that includes records that must be maintained by non-profit schools of amateur boxing, kickboxing, and martial arts as described under Section 548.007(1), F.S:

(a) Documentation supporting instruction schedules and locations;

(b) Documentation related to each student illustrating hours of instruction each student has obtained prior to participating in matches, including receipts of payment for instruction;

(d) Documentation evidencing non-profit status from the Internal Revenue Service

(e) This documentation is necessary to establish the school’s exemption from Chapter 548, F.S.

Rulemaking Authority 548.003 FS. Law Implemented 548.003(2), 548.004, 548.006, 548.007, 548.011 FS. History–New________.

61K1-4.015 Disciplinary Guidelines.

(1) The commission shall act in accordance with the following guidelines when it finds the enumerated violations in disciplinary cases. The commission shall impose a penalty within the range of each applicable disciplinary violation set forth below unless the commission finds an aggravating or mitigating circumstance, in which case the commission may deviate from the guideline penalty. The following disciplinary guidelines shall be followed by the commission in imposing disciplinary penalties upon licensees for violation of the noted statutes and rules:

(a) Being guilty of violating Chapter 548, F.S. or the rules of the commission. (Section 548.071(1),F.S.)

	MINIMUM	MAXIMUM
FIRST OFFENSE	$250 fine	denial of licensure or
		$5000 fine and suspension
		to be followed by a term of
		probation

SECOND OFFENSE	$500 fine and probation	denial of licensure or
		revocation

(b) Having commited fraud or deceit in securing any license or permit. (Section 548.071(2), F.S.)

	MINIMUM	MAXIMUM
FIRST OFFENSE	$1000 fine and probation	denial of licensure or
		$5000 fine and suspension
		to be followed by a term of
		probation

SECOND OFFENSE	$5000 fine and suspension	denial of licensure
		or $5000 fine and
		revocation

(c) Having an officer, trustee, partner, director, or owner who has been convicted of, having pleaded guilty to, or having entered a plea of nolo contendere to, or having been found guity of a crime involving moral turpitude in any jurisdiction within 10 years preceding the suspension or revocation. (Section 548.071(3), F.S.)

	MINIMUM	MAXIMUM
FIRST OFFENSE	$500 fine and probation	denial of licensure or
		$5000 fine and suspension
		to be followed by a term of
		probation

SECOND OFFENSE	$1000 fine and suspension	denial of licensure
		or $5000 fine and
		revocation

(d) Being guilty of unprofessional or unethical conduct. (Section 548.071(4), F.S.)

	MINIMUM	MAXIMUM
FIRST OFFENSE	$250 fine	denial of licensure or
		$5000 fine and suspension
		to be followed by a term of
		probation

SECOND OFFENSE	$500 fine and probation	denial of licensure or
		$5000 fine and revocation

(e) Having made a misstatement of a material fact, fraudulently concealed a material fact, or induced or aided another person in misstating or concealing any material fact in any application or other proceeding under Chapter 548, F.S. (Section 548.071(5)., F.S.)

	MINIMUM	MAXIMUM
FIRST OFFENSE	$1000 fine	denial of licensure or
		$5000 fine and suspension
		to be followed by a term of
		probation

SECOND OFFENSE	$2000 fine and probation	denial of licensure or
		$5000 fine and revocation

(f) Having loaned her or his license or permit to another person or having borrowed or used the license or permit of another. (Section 548.071(9)., F.S.)

	MINIMUM	MAXIMUM
FIRST OFFENSE	$1000 fine and probation	denial of licensure or
		$2000 fine and suspension
		to be followed by a term of
		probation

SECOND OFFENSE	$300 fine and suspension	denial of licensure or
		$5000 fine and revocation

(g) Having employed a person who does not hold a license or permit as required by law. (Section 548.071(10)., F.S.)

	MINIMUM	MAXIMUM
FIRST OFFENSE	$500 fine	denial of licensure or
		$1000 fine and suspension
		to be followed by a term of
		probation

SECOND OFFENSE	$3000 fine and probation	denial of licensure or
		$5000 fine and revocation

(h) Having been disciplined by the commission or similar agency or body of any jursidiction. (Section 548.071(12)., F.S.)

	MINIMUM	MAXIMUM
FIRST OFFENSE	$1000 fine and same penalty	denial of licensure or
	imposed by the other	$5000 fine and suspension
	jurisdiction	to be followed by a term of
		probation or revocation

SECOND OFFENSE	$3000 fine and same penalty	denial of licensure or
	imposed by the other	$5000 fine and
	jurisdiction	revocation

(i) Having failed to pay a fine imposed under Chapter 548, F.S. (Section 548.071(13), F.S.)

	MINIMUM	MAXIMUM
FIRST OFFENSE	$1000 fine	denial of licensure or
		$3000 fine and suspension
		to be followed by a term of
		probation or revocation

SECOND OFFENSE	$5000 fine and probation	denial of licensure or
		$5000 fine and revocation

(2) Based upon consideration of the following factors, the commission may impose disciplinary action other than the penalties recommended above:

(a) The danger to the public;

(b) The length of time since date of violation;

(d) The length of time licensee or registrant has practiced;

(e) The actual damage, physical or otherwise, caused by the violation;

(f) The deterrent effect of the penalty imposed;

(g) The effect of the penalty upon the licensee’s or registrant’s livelihood;

(h) Any efforts for rehabilitation;

(i) The actual knowledge of the licensee or registrant pertaining to the violation;

(j) Attempts by licensee or registrant to correct or stop violations or refusal by licensee or registrant to correct or stop violations;

(k) Related violations against a licensee or registrant in another state including findings of guilt or innocence, penalties imposed and penalties served;

(l) Actual negligence of the licensee or registrant pertaining to any violations;

(m) Any other mitigating or aggravating circumstances.

(3) The provisions of subsections (1) and (2) above shall not be construed so as to prohibit civil action or criminal prosecution., and the provisions of subsections (1) and (2) above shall not be construed so as to limit the ability of the commission to enter into binding stipulations with accused parties as per Section 120.57(3), F.S.

(4) In every case the commission imposes a monetary fine, it shall also suspend the Respondent’s license(s). However, to enable the Respondent to pay the fine, the suspension shall be stayed for the time period specified in the commission’s final order. If the fine is paid within that time period, the suspension shall not take effect; if the fine is not paid within that time period, then the stay shall expire and the suspension shall take effect. Thereafter, upon payment of the fine, the suspension shall be lifted.

Rulemaking Authority 548.003 FS. Law Implemented 548.071, 548.075 FS. History–New________.

61K1-4.016 Boxing Weight Classes; Weigh-In.

(1) Weight Classes

(a) Bantam Class

1. No boxing match shall be permitted when there is a difference of weight between the bantam class amateurs that is greater than 5 pounds.

(b) The following weight classes and differentials apply to amateurs in the Junior Class, Intermediate Class, and Senior Class, including all amateurs ages sixteen (16) years and younger:

Name	Weight (lbs)
Pinweight	100 or less
Light Flyweight	101 to 106
Flyweight	106 to 110
Light Bantamweight	110 to 114
Bantamweight	114 to 119
Featherweight	119 to 125
Lightweight	125 to 132
Light Welterweight	132 to 138
Welterweight	138 to 145
Light Middleweight	145 to 154
Middleweight	154 to 165
Light Heavyweight	165 to 176
Heavyweight	176 to 198
Super Heavyweight	198 and above

1. No boxing match shall be permitted when there is a difference of weight between the junior class, intermediate class, and senior class amateurs that is greater than 5 pounds.

(c) The following weight classes and differentials apply to amateurs in the Adult class and Master class, including all amateurs ages seventeen (17) and older:

Name	Weight (lbs)	Weight Differential (lbs)
Light Flyweight	Less than 108
Flyweight	109 to 114	6
Bantamweight	115 to 123	8
Lightweight	124 to 132	8
Light Welterweight	133 to 141	8
Welterweight	142 to 152	10
Middleweight	153 to 165	12
Light Heavyweight	166 to 179	13
Heavyweight	180 to 201	22
Super Heavyweight	202 and above	unlimited

(2) The commission may approve weight classes outside of these ranges on a case by case basis for tournaments, qualifying for the Junior Olympics or the Olympics or for participating in the Junior Olympics or Olympics. Requests for approval shall be submitted to the commission office no less than 30 days prior to the event for review.

(3) Additional Weight Class restrictions:

(a) Amateur sanctioning organizations shall not permit amateurs to participate outside of the weight spread permitted in the weight class of the lightest amateur.

(b) When matches involve amateurs with a crossover of age classes, the weight difference allowed between the amateurs will be that of the younger aged amateur’s class.

(4) Weigh-in

(a) Amateurs shall be weighed within 28 hours of the scheduled match, at a time and place designated by the amateur sanctioning organization, in the presence of the amateur sanctioning organization supervisor on scales approved by the amateur sanctioning organization.

(b) All weights shall be taken with the amateurs stripped of clothing and other weight bearing objects.

Rulemaking Authority 548.003(2) FS. Law Implemented 548.003, 548.006, FS. History– New ______.

61K1-4.017 Boxing Conduct of Bout; Rounds

(1) All matches are to be designated as amateur.

(a) If advertising is conducted, the advertising shall clearly indicate the matches are amateur.

(b) No event shall have both amateur and professional matches.

(2) Conduct of Bout for all age groups:

(a) Matches between a male amateur and female amateur are not permitted.

(b) Any individual who has competed anywhere in the world as a professional in combat sports, including, but not limited to boxing, mixed martial arts, Tough-Man competitions, kickboxing, and cage fighting, is prohibited from competing in amateur boxing, kickboxing, and mixed martial arts in the State of Florida.

(c) All amateurs must enter and compete in all matches under their own names. The use of a ring name or nickname is strictly prohibited.

(d) Matches between a minor (16 years and younger) and an adult (18 years and older) are prohibited. Amateur sanctioning organizations are responsible for verifying age prior to permitting amateurs to compete.

(e) Excessive coaching from corner is prohibited. Cornermen must remain seated in the designated chairs throughout the entire round.

(f) When a amateur is knocked out or injured by submission, no one is allowed in the ring until authorized by a referee or physician.

(g) In the event that a fighter is knocked down, the referee will send the standing fighter to the furthest neutral corner and count over the downed fighter. The referee is required to reach the count of eight prior to allowing the bout to continue. A knock down is anytime a part of the amateur’s body other than the soles of the feet touch the ground or would have touched the ground if the fighter had not grabbed the ropes or his opponent, as the result of a legal strike.

(h) In the event that a fighter is hurt, but not knocked down, and the referee is not in position to immediately determine if the bout should be stopped, he may stop the action and send the undamaged fighter to the furthest neutral corner and evaluate the damaged fighter while administering an eight count.

(i) Amateur sanctioning organizations shall not permit more than two amateurs to participate in any match.

(j) No one under the age of 8 years old shall be permitted to participate in amateur boxing.

(k) When matches involve a crossover of age classes, the length of the rounds will be that for the younger-aged amateur’s class.

(l) Amateurs may compete against amateurs from one age class above or below their age class. Amateurs under the age of sixteen (16) may not compete against amateurs with more than a 24 month difference in age, based on the amateurs’ actual birthdates.

(m) Advance notices for all amateur boxing events shall be filed by the amateur sanctioning organization, with the commission at least the (10) days before the date of each match.

(3) Conduct of Bout for Bantam Class:

(a) Amateurs aged eight (8), nine (9), and ten (10) are in the Bantam Class;

(b) Eight (8) year olds can only box eight (8) and nine (9) year olds;

(d) Ten (10) year olds can only box nine (9) and ten (10) year olds;

(e) The rounds shall consist of three one (1) minute rounds, with one minute between each round.

(4) Conduct of Bout for Junior Class:

(a) Amateurs aged eleven (11) and twelve (12) are in the Junior Class;

(b) The rounds shall consist of three one (1) minute rounds, with one minute between each round.

(5) Conduct of Bout for Intermediate Class:

(a) Amateurs aged thirteen (13) and fourteen (14) are in the Intermediate Class;

(b) The rounds shall consist of three one-and-a-half (1.5) minute rounds, with one minute between each round.

(6) Conduct of Bout for Senior Class

(a) Amateurs aged fifteen (15) and sixteen (16) are in the Senior Class;

(b) The rounds shall consist of three two (2) minute rounds, with one minute between each round.

(7) Conduct of Bout for Adult Class

(a) Amateurs aged seventeen (17) through thirty-four (34) are in the Adult Class;

(b) The rounds shall consist of three one-minute rounds, with one minute between each round.

(8) Conduct of Bout for Master Class

(a) Amateurs aged thirty-five (35) and up are in the Master Class;

(b) The rounds shall consist of three one-minute rounds, with one minute between each round.

(9) Fouls generally for all age groups include but are not limited to:

(a) All illegal techniques qualify as fouls, and shall be called by the referee and stopped immediately upon the referee calling the foul. Referees shall not permit amateurs to continue to foul opponents.

(b) A referee having any reason to believe that a foul has been committed, which said referee did not witness, may consult the judges and will make an appropriate decision according to the majority of the judges who saw the blow.

(10) Illegal Techniques (fouls) for all age classes:

(a) Hitting below the belt, holding, tripping, kicking and head butting;

(b) Hits or blows with head, shoulder, forearm, elbow, throttling of the opponent, pressing with arm or elbow in opponent’s face, pressing the head of the opponent back over the ropes;

(d) Hits landing on the back of the opponent, and especially any blow on the back of the neck or head and kidney punch;

(e) Hitting while holding the ropes or making any unfair use of the ropes;

(f) Lying on, wrestling, and throwing in the clinch;

(g) Hitting an opponent who is down or who is in the act of rising;

(h) Holding;

(i) Holding and hitting or pulling and hitting;

(j) Holding, or locking, of the opponent’s arm or head, or pushing an arm underneath the arm of the opponent;

(k) Ducking below the belt of the opponent in a dangerous manner;

(l) Completely passive defense by means of double cover and intentionally failing to avoid a blow;

(m) Not stepping back when ordered to break;

(n) Attempting to strike opponent immediately after the referee has order, “break” and before taking a step back;

(o) Assaulting or behaving in an aggressive manner toward a referee at any time;

(p) Spitting out mouthpiece;

(q) Pushing, shoving.

(11) Rounds

(a) No amateur shall be permitted to participate in any amateur match on more than one day in any seven. Exceptions may be made by the executive director or his designee for regularly sanctioned tournaments held in the same venue requiring two or more days to compete, so long as the matches are held within a reasonable time. Requests for approval shall be made to the commission office no later than 10 days prior to the matches.

(b) The duration of each round of a men’s boxing match shall be 3 minutes with 1-minute rest intervals between rounds.

(d) A boxing match may be scheduled for no more than five rounds.

(12) Participation in subsequent matches:

(a) Any amateur who loses by way of a TKO shall not participate in any match for a minimum of thirty (30) days, unless cleared by a neurologist to return sooner.

(b) Any amateur who loses by way of KO shall not participate in any match for a minimum of sixty (60) days.

(c) Amateurs shall receive a mandatory seven-day rest period after competing in a match. Day 1 of the mandatory rest period shall commence on the first day following the event.

(d) If the physician suspends an amateur based on a post-match physical, the amateur shall comply with all the stipulations listed by the physician in the suspension, including clearance by a physician licensed as an M.D. or D.O., prior participating in further matches,

Rulemaking Authority 548.003(2) FS. Law Implemented 548.003, 548.006, 548.057 FS. History–New________.

61K1-4.018 Boxing Apparel.

(1) Each male amateur shall wear the following:

(a) Traditional boxing trunks must be worn, the belt of which shall not extend above the waistline;

(b) A protective cup or groin protector as approved by the amateur sanctioning organization representative;

(c) An abdominal guard of standard type which provides sufficient protection to withstand any low blow without inhibiting an opponent’s ability to land a legal blow;

(d) Shoes made for the purpose of boxing;

(e) A sleeveless athletic shirt of a different color from the waistband of the trunks;

(f) Competitive headgear made to USA Boxing, AIBA, or the Amateur Boxing Federation specifications. The inner casing of the headgear shall be lined with 1 1/2 – ounce tanned, unfinished leather;

(g) Ear protection with ½ inch flat foam rubber on the outside, fitted in a semi-circle.

(2) Each female amateur shall wear the following in addition to those items listed in subsection (1) above:

(a) A protective cup or protective pelvic girdle to cover the pubic area, ovaries, coccyx and sides of the hips is optional;

(b) Shoes made for the purpose of boxing;

(d) Competitive headgear made to USA Boxing, AIBA, or the Amateur Boxing Federation specifications. The inner casing of the headgear shall be lined with 1 1/2 – ounce tanned, unfinished leather;

(e) Ear protection with ½ inch flat foam rubber on the outside, fitted in a semi-circle.

(3) For female amateurs, breast protectors are optional

(4) An individually fitted mouthpiece, which mouthpiece shall be in the amateur’s mouth at all times during the match period of each round as provided by these rules;

(5) Illegal apparel:

(a) Eyeglasses;

(b) Shoes with spikes, tassels, cleats, or heels;

(6) Amateurs may wear soft contact lenses. Hard contact lenses are forbidden.

Rulemaking Authority 548.003(2) FS. Law Implemented 548.003, 548.006, 548.006 FS. History–New________.

61K1-4.019 Boxing Bandages; Handwraps; Gloves.

(1) Bandages and Handwraps:

(a) All amateurs shall wear hand wraps that are made of cotton gauze, or soft surgical gauze, or velpeau.

(b) Cotton/soft surgical gauze: 15 yards of 2-inch gauze and a minimum of 3 feet, and a maximum of 6 feet of 1-inch adhesive tape per hand. The tape must be applied 1 inch behind the knuckles. Only ¾ inch tape may be applied between fingers and may not cover the striking surface of the hand.

(c) Velpeau: An amateur electing to use velpeau is allowed to use a minimum of 3 feet and a maximum of 6 feet of 1-inch adhesive tape per hand.

d) The amateur sanctioning organization representative must inspect all handwraps, and must sign across the knuckles of the hand wrappings before the gloves are secured on the hands. The amateur sanctioning organization is responsible for the amateurs’ compliance with the bandages and handwraps requirements.

(2) Gloves

(a) When the heavier of the two amateurs weighs 152 pounds or less, both amateurs shall use 10 ounce gloves. When the heavier of the two amateurs weighs more than 152 pounds, both amateurs shall use 12 ounce gloves.

(b) Amateurs 35 years and older shall use approved 16 oz gloves, regardless of their weight.

(d) Prior to the beginning of each match each glove of each amateur shall be examined and approved or disapproved by the amateur sanctioning organization representative and referee. Any glove intended to be used by a amateur in a match shall be whole, clean, in sanitary condition and shall have the thumb attached. Gloves shall be in good condition. If the padding in a glove is found to be misplaced or lumpy, or if the glove shows evidence of breaking, roughing or twisting, the glove shall be disapproved and shall not be used. The match shall not begin or continue unless an approved glove has been substituted for the disapproved glove.

(e) Laces of gloves shall be knotted on the back of the wrist and tape shall be applied over the laces so as to prevent injury to the opponent. Velcro shall be located on the back of the wrist and tape shall be applied over the Velcro.

(f) Gloves shall be adjusted under the supervision of the amateur sanctioning organization representative.

Rulemaking Authority 548.003(2) FS. Law Implemented 548.003, 548.006, 548.006, FS. History–New________.

61K1-4.020 Kickboxing Weight Classes; Weigh-In.

(1) Weight Classes:

Name	Weight (lbs)	Weight Differential (lbs)
Atomweight	Less than 108	4
Super Atomweight	109 to 111	4
Flyweight	112 to 114	4
Super Flyweight	115-117	4
Bantamweight	118-120	5
Super Bantamweight	121-124	5
Featherweight	125-128	5
Lightweight	129-132	6
Super Lightweight	133-137	6
Light Welterweight	138-142	6
Welterweight	143-147	7
Super Welterweight	148-153	7
Light Middleweight	154-159	7
Middleweight	160-165	8
Super Middleweight	166-172	8
Light Heavyweight	173-179	8
Light Cruiserweight	180-186	9
Cruiserweight	187-194	9
Super Cruiserweight	195-207	12
Heavyweight	208-223	15
Super Heavyweight	224 and above	unlimited

(2) Additional Weight Class restrictions:

(a) Amateur sanctioning organizations shall not permit amateurs to participate outside of the weight spread permitted in the weight class of the lightest amateur.

(b) No kickboxing match shall be permitted with a weight difference greater than the weight differentials listed above.

(3) Weigh-in

(b) All weights shall be taken with the amateurs stripped of clothing and other weight bearing objects.

(c) An amateur is not permitted to lose more than 3 percent of the initial body weight, as recorded by the amateur sanctioning organization for the amateur’s first weight taken during the weigh-in, to make weight.

Rulemaking Authority 548.003(2) FS. Law Implemented 548.003, 548.006, FS. History–New________.

61K1-4.021 Kickboxing Conduct of Bout; Rounds.

(1) All matches are to be designated as amateur.

(a) If advertising is conducted, the advertising shall clearly indicate the matches are amateur.

(b) No event shall have both amateur and professional matches.

(2) Conduct of Bout for all age groups:

(a) Any individual who has competed anywhere in the world as a professional in combat sports, including, but not limited to boxing, mixed martial arts, Tough-Man competitions, kickboxing, and cage fighting, is prohibited from competing in amateur boxing, kickboxing, and mixed martial arts in the State of Florida.

(b) All amateurs must enter and compete in all matches under their own names. The use of a ring name or nickname is strictly prohibited.

(d) Matches between an amateur who is under the age of eighteen (18) and an adult (18 years and older) are prohibited.

(e) No individual under the age of 16 years old shall be permitted to participate in amateur kickboxing. Amateur sanctioning organizations are responsible for ensuring that amateurs are 16 years or older. All amateurs must provide proof of age upon request, such as a notarized copy of their birth certificate or a government issued form of identification.

(f) Excessive coaching from the corner is prohibited. Cornermen must remain seated in the designed chairs throughout the entire round. Only one cornerman will be allowed in the ring during the rest periods.

(g) When an amateur is knocked out or injured, no one is allowed in the cage/ring until authorized by a referee or physician.

(h) Amateur sanctioning organizations shall not permit more than two amateurs to participate in any match.

(i) In the event that a fighter is knocked down, the referee will send the standing fighter to the furthest neutral corner and count over the downed fighter. The referee is required to reach the count of eight prior to allowing the bout to continue. A knock down is anytime a part of the amateur’s body other than the soles of the feet touch the ground or would have touched the ground if the fighter had not grabbed the ropes or his opponent, as the result of a legal strike.

(j) In the event that a fighter is hurt, but not knocked down, and the referee is not in position to immediately determine if the bout should be stopped, he may stop the action and send the undamaged fighter to the furthest neutral corner and evaluate the damaged fighter while administering an eight count.

(k) Advance notices for all amateur kickboxing events shall be filed by the amateur sanctioning organization, with the commission at least the (10) days prior to the date of each match.

(3) Fouls Generally for all age groups:

(4) Fouls:

(a) Head butting;

(b) Striking with the elbow to any target;

(d) Striking or kicking to the groin;

(e) Intentional striking or kicking to the back of the head, the neck, or to the throat;

(f) Striking the spine;

(g) Punching or kicking an amateur when he is down. An amateur is considered down when any part of his body other than his feet touches the floor. If an amateur is on his way to the floor, his opponent may continue to attack until he has touched the floor with any part of his body other than his feet;

(h) Take downs, other than legal sweeps (Exception for Muay Thai and San Shou);

(i) Intentionally pushing, shoving or wrestling an opponent out of the ring with any part of the body;

(j) Attacking on the break when both amateurs have been instructed to take a step back by the referee;

(k) Attacking after the bell has sounded to end the round;

(l) Holding and hitting; such as holding with one hand, especially behind the neck, and hitting with the other hand;

(m) Holding the ropes with one hand while striking or defending with the other hand or the legs;

(n) Hitting or flicking with an open glove or thumb, or striking with the inside, or bottom of the glove;

(o) Clinching - holding or otherwise tying-up an opponent's arm to prohibit him from punching.

(5) Rounds

(a) No amateur shall be permitted to participate in any match on more than one day in any seven. Exceptions may be made by the executive director or his designee for regularly sanctioned tournaments held in the same venue requiring two or more days to compete, so long as the matches are held within a reasonable time. Requests for approval shall be made to the commission office no later than 10 days prior to the matches.

(b) For junior participants (aged 16 and 17), the rounds shall be no more than three two (2) minute rounds with one minute between each round.

(c) For adult participants, the rounds shall be no more than five two (2) minute rounds with one minute between each round.

(d) An amateur kickboxing match shall be scheduled for not more than five rounds.

(6) Participation in subsequent matches:

(a) Any amateur who loses by way of a TKO shall not participate in any match for a minimum of thirty (30) days, unless cleared by a neurologist to return sooner.

(b) Any amateur who loses by way of KO (Knock out) shall not participate in any match for a minimum of sixty (60) days.

(c) Amateurs shall receive a mandatory ten-day rest period after competing in a match. Day 1 of the mandatory rest period shall commence on the first day following the event.

Rulemaking Authority 548.003(2) FS. Law Implemented 548.003, 548.006, 548.0065 FS. History–New________.

61K1-4.022 Kickboxing Apparel.

(1) Each male amateur shall wear the following:

(a) Traditional boxing trunks or Thai boxing shorts must be worn, the belt of which shall not extend above the waistline. Long paints with an elastic waistband may be worn in Full Contact/American Style kickboxing matches;

(b) A protective cup or groin protector as approved by the amateur sanctioning organization representative;

(c) Shin and instep protective pads, provided by the promoter, approved of by amateur sanctioning organization’s representative.

(2) Each female amateur shall wear the following:

(b) A close fitting tank or halter type top;

(c) Shin and instep protective pads, provided by the promoter, approved of by amateur sanctioning organization’s representative;

(d) A protective cup or protective pelvic girdle to cover the pubic area, ovaries, coccyx and sides of the hips is optional;

(e) Breast protectors are optional.

(3) All amateurs shall wear an individually fitted mouthpiece, which shall be in the amateur’s mouth at all times during the matches.

(4) Prohibited apparel:

(a) Eyeglasses;

(b) Shoes;

(5) Every amateur shall wear a headgear that is approved by the amateur sanctioning organization. during the match.

(6) Amateurs may wear soft contact lenses. Hard contact lenses are forbidden.

Rulemaking Authority 548.003(2) FS. Law Implemented 548.003, 548.006, 548.006, FS. History–New________.

61K1-4.023 Kickboxing Bandages; Handwraps; Gloves.

(1) Bandages and Handwraps:

(a) The wrapping of hands is not mandatory. Amateurs who wish to wrap their hands shall be responsible for their own gauze and tape or approved commercial hand wraps.

(c) Gauze shall be for the protection of the hand only. Tape shall be present only to hold the gauze in place, with NO TAPE allowed over the front of the knuckles (striking surface) and only 1 strip between the fingers not to exceed 1/4 in width and 4" in length.

(d) The amateur sanctioning organization representative must inspect all handwraps, and must sign across the knuckles of the hand wrappings before the gloves are secured on the hands. The amateur sanctioning organization is responsible for the amateur’s compliance with the bandages and handwraps requirements.

(e) A single elastic or neoprene style supportive sleeve may be worn on each foot and around each knee as long as it has no padding, braces, hinges, or anything that could injure the wearer or his opponent or create an advantage of any kind. These sleeves shall be of the size that does not extend beyond a point necessary to support the ankle or knee subject to the approval of the amateur sanctioning organization supervisor.

(2) Gloves

(a) When the lighter of the two amateurs weighs 152 pounds or less, both amateurs shall use 10 ounce gloves. When the lighter of the two amateurs weighs more than 152 pounds, both amateurs shall use 12 ounce gloves.

(b) Both amateurs shall use the same manufacturer of gloves.

(c) Prior to the beginning of each match each glove of each amateur shall be examined and approved or disapproved by the amateur sanctioning organization representative and the referee. Any glove intended to be used by a amateur in a match shall be whole, clean, in sanitary condition and shall have the thumb attached. Gloves shall be in good condition. If the padding in a glove is found to be misplaced or lumpy, or if the glove shows evidence of breaking, roughing or twisting, the glove shall be disapproved and shall not be used. The match shall not begin or continue unless an approved glove has been substituted for the disapproved glove.

(d) Laces of gloves shall be knotted on the back of the wrist and tape shall be applied over the laces so as to prevent injury to the opponent.

(e) Gloves shall be adjusted under the supervision of the amateur sanctioning organization representative.

Rulemaking Authority 548.003(2) FS. Law Implemented 548.003, 548.006, 548.006 FS. History–New________.

61K1-4.024 Mixed Martial Arts Weight Classes; Weigh-In.

(1) Weight Classes

Name	Weight (lbs)	Weight Differential (lbs)
Flyweight	125 and under	5
Bantam weight	126-135	5
Featherweight	136-145	6
Lightweight	146-155	6
Welterweight	156-170	7
Middleweight	171-185	8
Light Heavyweight	186-205	10
Cruiser heavyweight	206-230	15
Heavyweight	231-265	15
Super Heavyweight	Over 266	Unlimited

(2) Amateur sanctioning organizations shall not permit amateurs to participate outside of the weight spread permitted in the weight class of the lightest amateur.

(3) Weigh-in

(b) All weights shall be taken with the amateurs stripped of clothing and other weight bearing objects.

Rulemaking Authority 548.003(2) FS. Law Implemented 548.003, 548.006, 548.006, FS. History–New________.

61K1-4.025 Mixed Martial Arts Conduct of Bout; Rounds.

(1) All matches are to be designated as amateur.

(a) If advertising is conducted, the advertising shall clearly indicate the matches are amateur.

(b) No event shall have both amateur and professional matches.

(2) Any individual who has competed anywhere in the world as a professional in combat sports, including, but not limited to boxing, mixed martial arts, Tough-Man competitions, kickboxing, and cage fighting, is prohibited from competing in amateur boxing, kickboxing, and mixed martial arts in the State of Florida.

(3) All amateurs must enter and compete in all matches under their own names. The use of a ring name or nickname is strictly prohibited.

(4) No one under the age of 18 years old shall be permitted to participate in amateur mixed martial arts. Amateur sanctioning organizations are responsible for ensuring that amateurs are 18 years or older. All amateurs must provide proof of age upon request, such as a notarized copy of their birth certificate or a government issued form of identification.

(5) Matches between a male amateur and female amateur are not permitted.

(6) Excessive coaching from the corner is prohibited. Cornermen must remain seated in the designated chairs throughout the entire round. If the match is held in a ring, only one cornerman will be allowed in the ring during the rest period. If the match is held in a cage, then two cornermen will be allowed in the cage during the rest period.

(7) When a amateur is knocked out or injured by submission, no one is allowed in the cage/ring until authorized by a referee or physician.

(8) The referee, the physician, or the amateur may stop the match at any point. The referee or the physician shall have the power to stop a bout at any point during the bout, if he sees that either amateur is in such condition that to continue might subject him or her to serious injury.

(9) If both amateurs have gone to the ground and neither is actively working to improve his position then they shall be separated and stood up by the referee. The referee shall immediately restart the bout from the standing position.

(10) If one amateur has gone to the ground and the other amateur refuses to pursue his opponent to the ground and fails to administer legal strikes from the standing position, the referee shall “stand up” the downed amateur and re-engage the bout.

(11) Amateur sanctioning organization shall not permit more than two amateurs to participate in any match.

(12) Advance notices for all amateur mixed martial arts events shall be filed by the amateur sanctioning organization, with the commission at least ten (10) days before the date of each match.

(13) Fouls Generally:

(14) Fouls listed:

(a) Fouls/Illegal Techniques while Standing or on the Ground include:

1. Head butting;

2. Eye gouging;

3. Biting;

4. Hair pulling;

5. Fish-hooking;

6 Groin attacks of any kind;

7. Putting a finger into an orifice or into a cut;

8. Small joint manipulation / finger locks;

9. Striking the spine or the back of the head;

10. Striking with the elbow, forearm, or triceps;

11. Knee strikes to the head;

12. Linear kicks to the legs;

13. Heel hooks;

14 Spine locks;

15. Neck cranks;

16. Excessive slamming;

17. Throws against a joint;

18. Throat strikes or grabbing the trachea;

19. Clawing, twisting or pinching the flesh;

20. Grabbing the clavicle;

21. Striking the head of a grounded or downed opponent;

22. Striking an opponent who has been downed by a damaging strike;

23. Stomping a grounded opponent;

24. Striking the kidney;

25. Spiking an opponent to the canvas on his head or neck;

26. Pushing or throwing an opponent out of the ring;

27. Holding the shorts or gloves of an opponent;

28. Spitting;

29. Engaging in any unsportsmanlike conduct that causes an injury;

30. Holding the fence;

31. Attacking on the break;

32. Attacking your opponent while he’s under the care of the referee;

33. Attacking after the bell;

34. Flagrantly disregarding the instructions of the referee;

35. Timidity, including avoiding contact, losing you mouthpiece, faking injury;

36. Interference from the cornerman.

(b) In addition to the aforementioned fouls, fouls/illegal techniques while on the ground include:

1. Forearm, elbow or triceps strikes;

2. Neck cranks;

3. Any submission attacking the legs ankles or feet other than a straight knee bar (Heel hooks or any angled leg locks);

4. Choking with hand on throat;

5. Smothering (hand over mouth);

6. Spine locks;

7. Hammer locks;

8. Fish-hooks;

9. Groin strikes;

10. Spine strikes;

11. Throwing out of competition area;

12. Pinching, biting, gouging, and anything that might be considered "dirty fighting";

13. Grabbing or holding the uniform or protective padding.

(15) Rounds

(a) The duration of each round of an amateur mixed martial arts event shall not exceed 3 minutes with no less than 1 minute rest intervals between rounds.

(b) An amateur mixed martial arts match shall not exceed 3 rounds.

(c) No amateur shall be permitted to participate in any match on more than one day in any ten. Exceptions may be made by the executive director or his designee for regularly sanctioned tournaments held in the same venue requiring two or more days to compete, so long as the matches are held within a reasonable time. Requests for approval shall be made to the commission office no later than 10 days prior to the matches.

(d) No amateur will be allowed to compete more than once per calendar day and in no case, sooner than 12 hours from their previous bout if the amateur is cleared by the physician to participate.

(16) Participation in subsequent matches:

(a) Any amateur who loses by way of a TKO or by way of submission due to strikes shall not participate in any match for a minimum of thirty (30) days.

(b) Any amateur who loses by way of KO (Knock out) shall not participate in any match for a minimum of sixty (60) days.

(c) Amateurs shall receive a mandatory ten-day rest period after competing in a match. Day 1 of the mandatory rest period shall commence on the first day following the event.

Rulemaking Authority 548.003(2) FS. Law Implemented 548.003, 548.006, 548.0065, 548.043, 548.057 FS. History–New_______.

61K1-4.026 Mixed Martial Arts Apparel.

(1) Amateurs shall wear:

(a) Shorts approved by the amateur sanctioning organization representative;

(b) A protective cup or groin protector as approved by the amateur sanctioning organization representative;

(c) Shin and instep protective pads, provided by the promoter, approved of by amateur sanctioning organization’s representative.

(2) Amateurs may use knee or ankle support that are form-fitting with no rigid structural, abrasive materials, or padding. A single sleeve-like support may be worn on each ankle and each knee.

(3) Illegal apparel

(a) Eyeglasses;

(b) Footgear, shoes or any padding on the feet during the match, other than the required instep protection;

(d) Necklaces or any other type of jewelry;

(e) Any piercings;

(f) Shorts with a grip panel.

(4) Hair shall be short enough to avoid interference with vision. If hair ties are required, they should be soft in nature;

(5) All amateurs shall wear an individually fitted mouthpiece, which shall be in the amateur’s mouth at all times during the matches.

(6) Amateurs may wear soft contact lenses. Hard contact lenses are forbidden.

(7) Amateurs are permitted to use only a light coat of Vaseline on the face applied at cageside under the supervision of the referee or amateur sanctioning organization representative. Vaseline will not be permitted elsewhere on the body. No other products of any kinds may be applied at any time to any part of the amateurs’ face or body.

Rulemaking Authority 548.003(2) FS. Law Implemented 548.003, 548.006, 548.006, FS. History–New________.

61K1-4.027 Mixed Martial Arts Bandages, Handwraps; Gloves.

(1) Bandages and Handwraps:

(a) The wrapping of hands is not mandatory. Amateurs who wish to wrap their hands shall be responsible for their own gauze and tape or commercial hand wraps approved of by the amateur sanctioning organization.

(b) Gauze shall be of the soft or soft-stretch type, and shall not exceed 2 inches in width. Tape shall be of the soft adhesive type and shall not exceed 1.5 inches in width. One ten yard roll of gauze, and not more than two yards of tape, are the maximum allowable amounts for each hand. No other materials, including pre-made hand wraps, shall be allowed; nor shall any amounts exceeding those listed be allowed under any circumstances. Tape shall be present only to hold the gauze in place, and no more than one layer of tape be allowed on the striking surface of the hand and only 1 strip between the fingers not to exceed 1/4 in width and 4" in length.

(2) Gloves

(a) Gloves shall weigh no less than 7 ounces; both amateurs shall wear the same weight gloves and use the same manufacturer of gloves as provided by the promoter unless both amateurs agree to use different manufacturers of gloves.

(b) Prior to the beginning of each match each glove of each amateur shall be examined and approved or disapproved by the amateur sanctioning organization representative and the referee. Any glove intended to be used by a amateur in a match shall be whole, clean, in sanitary condition. Gloves shall be in good condition. If the padding in a glove is found to be misplaced or lumpy, or if the glove shows evidence of breaking, roughing or twisting, the glove shall be disapproved and shall not be used. The match shall not begin or continue unless an approved glove has been substituted for the disapproved glove.

(c) If laces are present, laces of gloves shall be knotted on the back of the wrist and tape shall be applied over the laces so as to prevent injury to the opponent. If velcro is present, the amateur sanctioning organization representative may require the use of tape to prevent injury or to prevent loosening of the gloves during the match. Whenever the representative decides to require tape, both corners must be subject to the same requirement.

(d) Gloves shall be adjusted in the ring under the supervision of the amateur sanctioning organization or referee.

Rulemaking Authority 548.003(2) FS. Law Implemented 548.003, 548.006, 548.006, FS. History-New_______.

NAME OF PERSON ORIGINATING PROPOSED RULE: Florida State Boxing Commission
NAME OF AGENCY HEAD WHO APPROVED THE PROPOSED RULE: Florida State Boxing Commission
DATE PROPOSED RULE APPROVED BY AGENCY HEAD: May 9, 2012 and October 11, 2012
DATE NOTICE OF PROPOSED RULE DEVELOPMENT PUBLISHED IN FAR: January 27, 2012 and August 31, 2012.

Document Information

Comments Open:: 10/24/2012
Summary:: The proposed rules set forth the obligations of amateur licensees licensed under Chapter 548, F.S., and applicants for licensure as amateur sanctioning organizations under chapter 548, F.S. by moving the requirements to a chapter designated strictly for amateur licensees and updating the rules to match industry standards.
Purpose:: The purpose and effect of the proposed rules is to set forth the obligations of amateur licensees licensed under Chapter 548, F.S., and applicants for licensure as amateur sanctioning organizations under chapter 548, F.S. by moving the requirements to a chapter designated strictly for amateur licensees and updating the rules to match industry standards.
Rulemaking Authority:: 120.695, 548.003(2), 548.075, F.S.
Law:: 120.695, 548.003, 548.004, 548.006, 548.0065, 548.007, 548.008, 548.011, 548.012, 548.013, 548.014, 548.017, 548.021, 548.025, 548.026, 548.028, 548.032, 548.035, 548.043, 548.046, 548.057, 548.066, 548.07, 548.071, 548.075, F.S.
Contact:: R. Kathleen Brown-Blake, Assistant General Counsel, Office of the General Counsel, 1940 North Monroe Street, Suite 42, Tallahassee, Florida 32399, (850) 717-1244.
Related Rules: (15): 61K1-4.001. Amateur Sanctioning Organization Licensure, Criteria for Approval and Denial; 61K1-4.002. Compliance Checks; 61K1-4.004. Emergency Medical Equipment; Other Requirements; 61K1-4.005. Arena Equipment Requirements; Ring Requirements; and Fenced Area Requirements; 61K1-4.006. Physician and Emergency Medical Technician Requirements; More ...