Ceretto pushes for MMA legalization during joint economic development budget hearing

Assemblyman John Ceretto continued his push for the legalization of professional Mixed Martial Arts in New York at today's joint legislative economic development budget hearing. He said legalizing MMA is an important step toward promoting economic development in Western New York, as New York is the only state in the nation where professional MMA is not allowed.

Ceretto said there is a new window of opportunity to pass MMA now that Sheldon Silver, the former speaker who opposed MMA, is no longer in a position to block the legislation.

"Today's joint economic development budget hearing presented the opportunity to push for the full legalization of MMA in New York state," Ceretto said. "This legislation, of which I am a co-sponsor, has bipartisan support and would create jobs and up to $135 million in economic growth for our state.

"I am working with the governor and legislative leaders to pass this important legislation, which would create more tourist opportunities for people to come to Western New York and improve our economy. With Silver out of the way, now is the time to pass MMA."