Whereas, current law providing for a 15% gate tax to fund the Maine Athletic Commission has the effect of reducing the number of events over which the commission has jurisdiction; and

Whereas, without an immediate reduction in the current gate tax, the commission has no means of supporting its regulatory program; and

Whereas, without regulation of boxing, wrestling and kick- boxing, the health, safety and welfare of Maine citizens are at risk; and

Whereas, in the judgment of the Legislature, these facts create an emergency within the meaning of the Constitution of Maine and require the following legislation as immediately necessary for the preservation of the public peace, health and safety; now, therefore,

Be it enacted by the People of the State of Maine as follows:

Sec. 1. 5 MRSA §12004-A, sub-§44, as amended by PL 1999, c. 687, Pt. B, §1, is further amended to read:

44. Maine $35/Day 32 MRSA §13501

Athletic Commission Expenses Only

Sec. 2. 32 MRSA §13501, as amended by PL 1993, c. 600, Pt. A, §267, is further amended to read:

§13501. Commission

The Maine Athletic Commission, established by Title 5, section 12004-A, subsection 44, and in this chapter called "the commission," consists of 5 members appointed by the Governor. A person who receives any compensation or remuneration for promoting, competing or otherwise engaging in boxing, wrestling or kick-boxing is not eligible for appointment. Each member of the commission is entitled to compensation expense reimbursement as provided in Title 5, chapter 379.

Appointments are for 3-year terms. Appointments of members must comply with section 60. A member may be removed by the Governor for cause.

Sec. 3. 32 MRSA §13502, first ¶, as enacted by PL 1987, c. 395, Pt. A, §212, is amended to read: