reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 2.5 - Service Members, Veterans, and Military Spouses -- Licensing › Section 2.5-105 - Expedited License

(a)    (1)    Each unit shall issue an expedited license to a service member, veteran, or military spouse who meets the requirements of this section.
(2)    If a service member, veteran, or military spouse meets the requirements for licensure, a unit shall issue the license within 60 days after receiving a completed application.
(b)    An application for a license shall include the following, in the form and manner required by the unit:
(1)    proof that the applicant is a service member, veteran, or military spouse;
(2)    proof that:
(i)    the applicant has held a valid license in good standing issued in another state for at least 1 year; and
(ii)    each valid license held by the applicant issued in another state is in good standing;
(3)    if the applicant is a service member or veteran, proof that the applicant is assigned to a duty station in the State or has established legal residence in the State;
(4)    if the applicant is a military spouse, proof that the applicant’s spouse is assigned to a duty station in the State or has established legal residence in the State;
(5)    if a criminal background check is required by the unit for licensure, proof of application for a criminal background check;
(6)    proof that the applicant has submitted the full application for licensure; and
(7)    payment of any application fee required by the unit.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 2.5 - Service Members, Veterans, and Military Spouses -- Licensing › Section 2.5-106 - Temporary License -- Where Other State Requirements Not Equivalent

(a)    Subject to subsections (b) and (c) of this section, a unit may issue a temporary license to a service member, veteran, or military spouse who has held a valid license in good standing issued in another state for less than 1 year, provided that each valid license held by the service member, veteran, or military spouse is in good standing.
(b)    A temporary license issued under this section authorizes the service member, veteran, or military spouse, for a limited period of time, as determined by the unit, to perform services regulated by the unit while the service member, veteran, or military spouse completes additional requirements for licensure in this State.
(c)    A unit may not issue a license under this section if issuance of the license would pose a risk to public health, welfare, or safety.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 2.5 - Service Members, Veterans, and Military Spouses -- Licensing › Section 2.5-107 - Process Published on Website

(a)    The Department shall publish prominently on its website:
(1)    the process for obtaining a license from any unit under § 2.5–105 of this title;
(2)    the time period during which a unit is required to issue an expedited license under § 2.5–105(a) of this title; and
(3)    a list of the names of each unit that issues a license under this title and a direct link to each unit’s website.
(b)    Each unit shall publish prominently on its website:
(1)    the process for obtaining a license under § 2.5–105 of this title and, if applicable, § 2.5–106 of this title; and
(2)    the time period during which a unit is required to issue an expedited license under § 2.5–105(a) of this title.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 3 - Amusement Attractions › Subtitle 1 - Definitions; General Provisions › Section 3-101 - Definitions

(a)    In this title the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b)    (1)    “Amusement attraction” means:
(i)    an amusement ride; or
(ii)    a structure that gives amusement, excitement, pleasure, or thrills to people who move around, over, or through the structure without the aid of a moving device integral to the structure.
(2)    “Amusement attraction” does not include a structure that is devoted principally to exhibitions related to agriculture, the arts, education, industry, religion, or science.
(c)    “Amusement owner” means a person, the State, or a political subdivision of the State that owns an amusement attraction or, if the amusement attraction is leased, the lessee.
(d)    “Amusement park” means an area that is used principally for 1 or more permanently erected amusement attractions.
(e)    “Amusement ride” means a device that is intended to give amusement, excitement, pleasure, or thrills to passengers whom the device carries:
(1)    along or around a fixed or restricted course; or
(2)    within a defined area.
(f)    “Carnival” means an itinerant enterprise that consists principally of 1 or more temporarily located amusement attractions.
(g)    “Commissioner” means the Commissioner of Labor and Industry.
(h)    “Fair” means an enterprise that:
(1)    is devoted principally to periodic exhibitions related to agriculture, the arts, education, industry, religion, or science; and
(2)    has 1 or more amusement attractions operated along with the exhibitions.
(i)    “Inflatable amusement attraction” means an air–supported amusement attraction that:
(1)    incorporates a structural and mechanical system; and
(2)    uses a high strength fabric or film that achieves its strength, shape, and stability by tensioning from internal air pressure.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 3 - Amusement Attractions › Subtitle 1 - Definitions; General Provisions › Section 3-102 - Legislative Findings; Statement of Purpose

(a)    The General Assembly finds that:
(1)    an unsafe amusement attraction is likely to cause serious and preventable injuries to members of the public; and
(2)    for the welfare of the people of the State, these injuries must be prevented and the public must be protected from unsafe amusement attractions.
(b)    The purpose of this title is to ensure, as far as possible, the safety of the public in the use of amusement attractions at carnivals, fairs, and amusement parks in the State by providing for:
(1)    adoption of safety regulations;
(2)    an effective enforcement and compliance program; and
(3)    reporting procedures on the safety of amusement attractions that:
(i)    help to achieve the purpose of this title; and
(ii)    describe accurately the hazards of amusement attractions.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 3 - Amusement Attractions › Subtitle 1 - Definitions; General Provisions › Section 3-103 - Scope of Title

(a)    This title does not apply to a single-passenger, coin-activated amusement ride that is electrically, manually, or mechanically operated unless admission is charged for access to the place where the amusement ride is located.
(b)    This title does not repeal or modify § 21–1111 (“Medicine or patent medicine shows”) or § 21–1212 (“Violation of § 21–1111”) of the Health – General Article.
(c)    This title does not prevent the licensing of carnivals, fairs, or amusement attractions by the State or a political subdivision of the State.
(d)    This title does not repeal or modify the Maryland Occupational Safety and Health Act.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 3 - Amusement Attractions › Subtitle 2 - Administration and Enforcement › Section 3-201 - Responsibility of Commissioner

(a)    The Commissioner shall administer and enforce this title.
(b)    (1)    The proposed budget of the Division of Labor and Industry shall include an appropriation from the Workers’ Compensation Commission to cover the cost of administering and enforcing this title.
(2)    The Workers’ Compensation Commission shall pay the cost of administering and enforcing this title from money that the Commission receives under § 9-316 of the Labor and Employment Article.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 3 - Amusement Attractions › Subtitle 2 - Administration and Enforcement › Section 3-203 - Delegation of Inspection Power

(a)    The Commissioner may make an agreement with a municipal corporation or political subdivision of the State or unit of the State government to delegate the power of inspection.
(b)    If a political subdivision satisfies the Commissioner that the political subdivision can make the inspections required under this title, the Commissioner shall make an agreement with the political subdivision to delegate the power of inspection.
(c)    (1)    The Commissioner may retain the right to monitor an inspection by a municipal corporation or political subdivision of the State or unit of the State government.
(2)    The Commissioner may revoke the agreement.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 3 - Amusement Attractions › Subtitle 2 - Administration and Enforcement › Section 3-204 - General Powers and Duties

(a)    The Commissioner may administer oaths, depose witnesses, and certify to official acts.
(b)    The Commissioner may issue subpoenas for the attendance of witnesses to testify or to produce evidence.
(c)    In addition to any duties set forth elsewhere, the Commissioner shall establish procedures necessary for reporting and keeping records to carry out the duties of the Commissioner under this title.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 3 - Amusement Attractions › Subtitle 2 - Administration and Enforcement › Section 3-205 - Administrative Search Warrant

(a)    Whenever an individual who is authorized to inspect property in the State under this title is denied access to the property after making a proper request for access of the owner, tenant, or other person in charge of the property, the individual may apply to the District Court for an administrative search warrant.
(b)    The application shall:
(1)    state the nature, purpose, and scope of the inspection; and
(2)    show that:
(i)    the applicant:
1.    is authorized by law to make the inspection; and
2.    made a proper request for access at a reasonable time;
(ii)    access was denied; and
(iii)    the inspection is for a purpose related to safety or health.
(c)    An application may not be submitted to the District Court unless approved by the Attorney General.
(d)    On application in accordance with this section, the District Court may issue an administrative search warrant.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 3 - Amusement Attractions › Subtitle 2 - Administration and Enforcement › Section 3-206 - Judicial Review

(a)    A person who is adversely affected or aggrieved by an order passed or regulation adopted by the Commissioner under this title may appeal to a court of competent jurisdiction in accordance with the Maryland Rules.
(b)    (1)    The filing of an appeal does not stay an order or regulation of the Commissioner.
(2)    However, after giving the Commissioner notice and an opportunity for a hearing, the court in which the appeal is pending may stay an order or regulation of the Commissioner on the conditions that the court considers proper.
(3)    The conditions may include a requirement to post security.
(c)    A court shall hear the appeal promptly.
(d)    A regulation that the Commissioner adopts under this subtitle:
(1)    is prima facie lawful and reasonable; and
(2)    may not be held invalid because of a technical defect, if there is substantial compliance with this title.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 3 - Amusement Attractions › Subtitle 2 - Administration and Enforcement › Section 3-207 - Proceeding for Enforcement

(a)    The Commissioner may bring an action in a court of competent jurisdiction to enforce an order passed or regulation adopted under this subtitle.
(b)    Subject to § 3-302 of the State Finance and Procurement Article, on request of the Commissioner, the Attorney General may proceed in a State or federal court or before any other federal unit to enforce a decision or order of the Commissioner under this title.
(c)    A court shall hear the action promptly.
(d)    A regulation that the Commissioner adopts under this subtitle:
(1)    is prima facie lawful and reasonable; and
(2)    may not be held invalid because of a technical defect, if there is substantial compliance with this title.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 3 - Amusement Attractions › Subtitle 3 - Regulations › Section 3-304 - Membership

(a)    (1)    The Board consists of 9 members appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Senate.
(2)    Of the 9 members of the Board:
(i)    1 shall be a mechanical engineer;
(ii)    1 shall represent owners of carnivals;
(iii)    1 shall represent the State Fair and the county fairs;
(iv)    1 shall represent amusement ride rental operators;
(v)    2 shall represent owners of amusement parks; and
(vi)    3 shall be consumer members.
(3)    In choosing the members of the Board, the Governor shall make every effort to ensure that each region of the State is represented.
(4)    The composition of the Board as to the race and gender of its members shall reflect the composition of the population of the State.
(b)    Each consumer member of the Board shall be a member of the general public.
(c)    (1)    The term of a member is 4 years and begins on July 1.
(2)    The terms of members are staggered as required by the terms provided for members of the Board on October 1, 1992.
(3)    At the end of a term, a member continues to serve until a successor is appointed and qualifies.
(4)    A member who is appointed after a term has begun serves only for the rest of the term and until a successor is appointed and qualifies.
(d)    (1)    The Governor may remove a member for incompetence or misconduct.
(2)    Except as provided in paragraph (3) of this subsection and subject to paragraph (4) of this subsection, a member shall be considered to have resigned if the member did not attend at least two–thirds of the Board meetings held during any consecutive 12–month period while the member was serving on the Board.
(3)    The Governor may waive a member’s resignation and allow the member to continue serving if the member has been unable to attend meetings for reasons satisfactory to the Governor and the reasons are made public.
(4)    In accordance with § 8–501 of the State Government Article, the chairman shall provide notice to the Governor and the Governor shall appoint a successor.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 3 - Amusement Attractions › Subtitle 3 - Regulations › Section 3-306 - Meetings; Compensation

(a)    The Board shall set the times and places of its hearings and meetings.
(b)    Each member of the Board is entitled to:
(1)    compensation in accordance with the State budget; and
(2)    reimbursement for expenses under the Standard State Travel Regulations, as provided in the State budget.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 3 - Amusement Attractions › Subtitle 3 - Regulations › Section 3-309 - Bases for Recommendation of Board

(a)    The Board shall base its recommendations for regulations on information that:
(1)    the Commissioner develops or otherwise has available; or
(2)    an interested person submits to the Board at a public hearing under this section.
(b)    (1)    The Board shall hold the public hearings needed to carry out its responsibilities under this subtitle.
(2)    At least 15 days before a hearing, the Commissioner shall publish notice of the hearing in the Maryland Register.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 3 - Amusement Attractions › Subtitle 3 - Regulations › Section 3-310 - Report to Commissioner

The Board shall submit to the Commissioner, with each recommendation for a regulation, a report that:
(1)    explains the need for the regulation; and
(2)    summarizes the information available to the Board, including:
(i)    testimony that was presented at any public hearing; and
(ii)    technical information.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 3 - Amusement Attractions › Subtitle 3 - Regulations › Section 3-312 - Delayed Effective Date

The Commissioner may delay the effective date of a regulation for not more than 90 days after publication of the notice of adoption, if the Commissioner finds that the delay is needed to ensure that each manufacturer, operator, or amusement owner of an amusement attraction affected by the regulation knows about and has an opportunity to familiarize employees with the requirements of the regulation.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 3 - Amusement Attractions › Subtitle 3 - Regulations › Section 3-313 - Copies of Regulations

(a)    The Commissioner shall:
(1)    compile a set of current regulations adopted under this subtitle;
(2)    keep a set of the regulations in the Office of the Commissioner; and
(3)    make a copy of the regulations for anyone who asks for one.
(b)    The Commissioner may set a fee to cover the cost of making and mailing a copy of the current regulations.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 3 - Amusement Attractions › Subtitle 3 - Regulations › Section 3-314 - Variances

(a)    An amusement owner affected by a regulation adopted under this subtitle may apply in writing to the Commissioner for a variance from the regulation.
(b)    The Commissioner may grant a variance from a regulation adopted under this subtitle if:
(1)    the variance is necessary to prevent undue hardship; or
(2)    an existing condition makes compliance with the regulation impracticable and the Commissioner believes that the reasonable safety of the public can be ensured.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 3 - Amusement Attractions › Subtitle 4 - Operation of Amusement Attractions › Section 3-401 - Insurance and Inspection Required

(a)    An amusement attraction may not operate unless the amusement owner has purchased insurance for the amusement attraction in accordance with this subtitle.
(b)    Except for testing and inspection, an amusement attraction may not be operated unless the Commissioner has issued a certificate of inspection for the amusement attraction.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 3 - Amusement Attractions › Subtitle 4 - Operation of Amusement Attractions › Section 3-402 - Inspections and Investigations

(a)    The Commissioner shall inspect:
(1)    annually, each amusement attraction at an amusement park;
(2)    annually, each inflatable amusement attraction in which, while in contact with the attraction, an individual is 4 feet or more above the ground;
(3)    except for an inflatable amusement attraction, each amusement attraction, if moved, before it begins operation at another location; and
(4)    each new or modified amusement attraction before it begins public operation.
(b)    (1)    An amusement owner shall notify the Commissioner before operating an amusement attraction that is new, modified, or reconstructed.
(2)    An owner or lessee of a carnival or fair shall:
(i)    notify the Commissioner in writing at least 30 days before opening the carnival or fair at each location; and
(ii)    give the Commissioner immediate notice of a change in the schedule of locations or dates if the schedule changes after notification.
(c)    The Commissioner shall issue to an amusement owner a certificate of inspection for each amusement attraction at a carnival, fair, or amusement park if:
(1)    after inspection the Commissioner finds that the amusement attraction complies with this title and the regulations adopted under it; and
(2)    the amusement owner submits to the Commissioner a certificate of insurance for the amusement attraction as required by § 3–403 of this subtitle.
(d)    (1)    A certificate of inspection for an amusement attraction at an amusement park expires not more than 1 year after the date of issuance.
(2)    A certificate of inspection for an amusement attraction at a fair or carnival expires not more than 30 days after the date of issuance.
(3)    A certificate of inspection for an inflatable amusement attraction in which, while in contact with the attraction, an individual is 4 feet or more above the ground expires not more than 1 year after the date of issuance.
(e)    The certificate of inspection shall be posted in plain view on the amusement attraction.
(f)    On information or notification of an accident or complaint that involves an amusement attraction, the Commissioner shall investigate the accident or complaint and inspect the amusement attraction.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 3 - Amusement Attractions › Subtitle 4 - Operation of Amusement Attractions › Section 3-403 - Insurance

(a)    (1)    An amusement owner shall obtain insurance against liability for injury to an individual that arises out of the use of an amusement attraction.
(2)    The insurance shall be in the amount of at least:
(i)    $350,000 for an amusement ride that operates by mechanical means; or
(ii)    $200,000 for:
1.    an amusement ride that operates only by human power or gravity, including a water slide or water flume; or
2.    any other amusement attraction.
(b)    An amusement owner shall obtain insurance from an insurer or surety that is acceptable to the State Insurance Commissioner.
(c)    (1)    A county where an amusement attraction is located may buy, on behalf of a nonprofit organization, the amount of insurance required under this section for the amusement attraction.
(2)    A county that merely buys insurance for an amusement owner is immune from liability under § 5–516 of the Courts and Judicial Proceedings Article.
(d)    (1)    This subsection applies to a nonprofit community service corporation that:
(i)    is incorporated under Maryland law;
(ii)    is authorized to collect charges or assessments by a covenant running with the land; and
(iii)    has gross annual revenues of at least $15,000,000.
(2)    A nonprofit community service corporation complies with the insurance requirements of this section for an amusement attraction that the corporation owns and operates if the corporation is self–insured for at least $1,000,000 against liability for injury that arises out of the use of the amusement attraction:
(i)    under regulations that the State Insurance Commissioner adopts; or
(ii)    until the State Insurance Commissioner adopts regulations, with the approval of the State Insurance Commissioner, if the corporation is authorized by a covenant running with the land to collect a payment or charge based on the value of real property.
(3)    A nonprofit community service corporation that elects to self–insure shall submit periodically in writing to the State Insurance Commissioner the conditions of self–insurance.
(4)    The conditions of self–insurance must:
(i)    be approved by the State Insurance Commissioner; and
(ii)    conform with the conditions of comprehensive liability insurance policies available in the private market.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 3 - Amusement Attractions › Subtitle 4 - Operation of Amusement Attractions › Section 3-404 - Records and Reports

(a)    Each amusement owner who operates an amusement attraction in the State shall:
(1)    keep and make available to the Commissioner records about the activities of the amusement owner under this title; and
(2)    keep accurate records of, and submit periodic reports to the Commissioner on, injuries to the public that occur during use of amusement attractions other than injuries that:
(i)    are minor;
(ii)    require only first-aid treatment; and
(iii)    do not involve medical treatment or loss of consciousness.
(b)    Whenever a death or serious physical injury results from the operation of an amusement attraction:
(1)    the person who directly controls the operation of the amusement attraction immediately shall close the amusement attraction until it has been inspected by the Commissioner;
(2)    the amusement owner shall report the incident orally or in writing to the Commissioner within 24 hours; and
(3)    the Commissioner shall inspect the amusement attraction within 24 hours after receiving notice of the incident.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 3 - Amusement Attractions › Subtitle 4 - Operation of Amusement Attractions › Section 3-405 - Prohibition on Use of Attraction

(a)    The Commissioner may prohibit use of an amusement attraction if, after an inspection or investigation, the Commissioner finds that:
(1)    the amusement attraction violates a regulation adopted under this title; and
(2)    there is a substantial probability of death or serious physical injury from continued use of the amusement attraction.
(b)    To prohibit use of an amusement attraction, the Commissioner shall give an amusement owner written notice that prohibits use of the amusement attraction.
(c)    (1)    The Commissioner shall post a copy of the notice on the amusement attraction.
(2)    Only the Commissioner may remove the copy of the notice.
(d)    The amusement attraction may not be operated until it is made safe for public use and each required safeguard is provided.
(e)    (1)    A person who is aggrieved by a decision of the Commissioner under this section may appeal to a court of competent jurisdiction in accordance with the Maryland Rules.
(2)    (i)    The filing of an appeal does not stay the decision of the Commissioner.
(ii)    However, after giving the Commissioner notice and an opportunity for a hearing, the court in which the appeal is pending may stay the decision of the Commissioner on conditions that the court considers proper.
(iii)    The conditions may include a requirement to post security.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 3 - Amusement Attractions › Subtitle 5 - Prohibited Acts; Penalties › Section 3-501 - False Representations and Statements

(a)    A person may not knowingly make a false representation or false statement in an application, plan, record, report, or other document that the person submits or is required to keep under this title.
(b)    A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and, on conviction, is subject to a fine not exceeding $2,500 or imprisonment not exceeding 6 months or both.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 3 - Amusement Attractions › Subtitle 5 - Prohibited Acts; Penalties › Section 3-502 - Willful Violation Causing Death; Penalty

If an amusement owner willfully violates this title or an order passed or regulation adopted under this title and a member of the public dies as a result of the violation, the amusement owner is guilty of a misdemeanor and, on conviction, is subject to:
(1)    for a first offense, a fine not exceeding $2,500 or imprisonment not exceeding 6 months or both; or
(2)    for a subsequent offense, a fine not exceeding $5,000 or imprisonment not exceeding 1 year or both.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 3 - Amusement Attractions › Subtitle 5 - Prohibited Acts; Penalties › Section 3-503 - Prohibition on Bungee Jumping Operation

(a)    (1)    In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.
(2)    “Bungee jump” means jumping or falling by an individual from a height while attached to a rope or cord that is elastic, rubber, or latex.
(3)    “Bungee jumping operation” means an operation that allows an individual to bungee jump for a fee or dues.
(b)    A person may not conduct a bungee jumping operation.
(c)    A person who violates subsection (b) of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and, on conviction, is subject to a fine not exceeding $2,500 or imprisonment not exceeding 6 months or both.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 3 - Amusement Attractions › Subtitle 5 - Prohibited Acts; Penalties › Section 3-504 - Civil Penalties

(a)    The Commissioner shall impose a civil penalty for a violation of this title only:
(1)    in accordance with this section; and
(2)    after issuing a citation under § 3-406 of this title for the violation.
(b)    The Commissioner may impose a civil penalty, not exceeding $500 for each violation, against an amusement owner who:
(1)    violates this title or an order passed or regulation adopted under this title, if the Commissioner finds that the violation is not serious; or
(2)    violates a requirement for posting imposed under this title.
(c)    The Commissioner may impose a civil penalty, not exceeding $500 for each day a violation continues, against an amusement owner who fails to correct the violation in the time set for its correction.
(d)    The Commissioner may impose a civil penalty, not exceeding $1,000 for each violation, against an amusement owner who violates this title or an order passed or regulation adopted under this title if a substantial probability of death or serious physical injury exists because of the violation, unless the amusement owner did not know and with reasonable diligence could not have known of the violation.
(e)    The Commissioner may impose a civil penalty, not exceeding $2,000 for each violation, against a person who:
(1)    operates an amusement attraction without a certificate of inspection from the Commissioner; or
(2)    willfully or repeatedly violates this title or an order passed or regulation adopted under this title.
(f)    Before the Commissioner imposes a civil penalty, the Commissioner shall consider the appropriateness of the penalty in relation to:
(1)    the size of the business of the amusement owner against whom the penalty is to be imposed;
(2)    the gravity of the violation for which the penalty is to be imposed;
(3)    the good faith of the amusement owner; and
(4)    any previous violations by the amusement owner.
(g)    Each civil penalty shall be paid into the General Fund of the State.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 4 - Athletics › Subtitle 1 - Definitions › Section 4-101 - Definitions

(a)    In this title the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b)    “Boxing” includes sparring.
(c)    “Commission” means the State Athletic Commission.
(d)    (1)    “Contest” means a boxing, kick boxing, or wrestling:
(i)    competition;
(ii)    exhibition;
(iii)    match;
(iv)    performance; or
(v)    show.
(2)    “Contest” includes a mixed martial arts:
(i)    competition;
(ii)    match;
(iii)    performance; or
(iv)    show.
(3)    “Contest” does not include a mixed martial arts exhibition.
(e)    “Contestant” means an individual who participates in a boxing, professional kick boxing, amateur kick boxing, professional mixed martial arts, or amateur mixed martial arts contest.
(f)    “Mixed martial arts” means a competition in which contestants use interdisciplinary forms of fighting, including various forms of martial arts, involving:
(1)    striking with the hands, feet, knees, or elbows; and
(2)    grappling by take–downs, throws, submissions, or choke holds.
(g)    “Mixed martial arts exhibition” means mixed martial arts where:
(1)    contact to the body is permitted in only a restrained manner;
(2)    contact to the head is not permitted; and
(3)    no contact is permitted that may result, or is intended to result, in physical harm to an opponent.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 4 - Athletics › Subtitle 2 - State Athletic Commission › Section 4-202 - Membership

(a)    The Commission consists of 5 members appointed by the Governor with the advice of the Secretary.
(b)    Before taking office, each appointee to the Commission shall take the oath required by Article I, § 9 of the Maryland Constitution.
(c)    (1)    The term of a member is 6 years and begins on July 1.
(2)    The terms of members are staggered as required by the terms provided for members of the Commission on October 1, 1992.
(3)    At the end of a term, a member continues to serve until a successor is appointed and qualifies.
(4)    A member who is appointed after a term has begun serves only for the rest of the term and until a successor is appointed and qualifies.
(d)    (1)    The Governor may remove a member for incompetence or misconduct.
(2)    Except as provided in paragraph (3) of this subsection and subject to paragraph (4) of this subsection, a member shall be considered to have resigned if the member did not attend at least two–thirds of the Commission meetings held during any consecutive 12–month period while the member was serving on the Commission.
(3)    The Governor may waive a member’s resignation and allow the member to continue serving if the member has been unable to attend meetings for reasons satisfactory to the Governor and the reasons are made public.
(4)    In accordance with § 8–501 of the State Government Article, the chairman shall provide notice to the Governor and the Governor shall appoint a successor.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 4 - Athletics › Subtitle 2 - State Athletic Commission › Section 4-204 - Quorum; Meetings; Compensation; Surety Bond; Staff; Office

(a)    (1)    A majority of the authorized membership of the Commission is a quorum.
(2)    The Commission may not act unless a majority of the authorized membership concurs.
(b)    The Commission shall set the times and places of its meetings.
(c)    (1)    The chairman of the Commission is entitled to:
(i)    an annual salary of $6,000; and
(ii)    reimbursement for expenses under the Standard State Travel Regulations, as provided in the State budget.
(2)    Each other member of the Commission is entitled to:
(i)    an annual salary of $4,000; and
(ii)    reimbursement for expenses under the Standard State Travel Regulations, as provided in the State budget.
(d)    While in office, each member of the Commission shall be covered by a surety bond in the form and amount required by law.
(e)    The Commission may employ a staff in accordance with the State budget.
(f)    The Commission shall have its general offices in Baltimore City.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 4 - Athletics › Subtitle 2 - State Athletic Commission › Section 4-205 - Miscellaneous Powers and Duties

(a)    The Commission shall control and have jurisdiction over all contests held in the State.
(b)    The Commission may:
(1)    adopt regulations to administer its office;
(2)    administer oaths; and
(3)    issue subpoenas for the attendance of witnesses to testify or to produce evidence.
(c)    The Commission shall:
(1)    adopt a seal;
(2)    adopt regulations to carry out this subtitle and Subtitle 3 of this title;
(3)    keep a record of its proceedings;
(4)    keep at its general offices all its books, documents, and papers; and
(5)    prepare notices and other papers for service.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 4 - Athletics › Subtitle 3 - Boxing, Kick Boxing, Wrestling, and Mixed Martial Arts › Section 4-301 - "License" Defined

(a)    In this subtitle, “license” means a license issued by the Commission.
(b)    In this subtitle, “license” includes:
(1)    a license to participate as a boxer in a contest;
(2)    a license to participate as a professional kick boxer in a contest;
(3)    a license to participate as an amateur kick boxer in a contest;
(4)    a license to participate as a wrestler in a contest;
(5)    a license to participate as a professional mixed martial arts contestant in a contest;
(6)    a license to participate as an amateur mixed martial arts contestant in a contest;
(7)    a license to act as a manager for a contestant;
(8)    a license to act as a referee in a contest;
(9)    a license to act as a judge in a contest;
(10)    a license to act as a second in a contest;
(11)    a license to act as a matchmaker of a contest; and
(12)    a license to act as a promoter of a contest.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 4 - Athletics › Subtitle 3 - Boxing, Kick Boxing, Wrestling, and Mixed Martial Arts › Section 4-302 - Scope of Subtitle; Headgear for Amateur Boxing, Kick Boxing, Wrestling, or Mixed Martial Arts

(a)    Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, this subtitle does not apply to:
(1)    intercollegiate, interscholastic, or intramural boxing, kick boxing, or wrestling;
(2)    amateur boxing conducted under the supervision of a nationally recognized amateur organization;
(3)    martial arts where:
(i)    contact to the body is permitted in only a restrained manner;
(ii)    contact to the head is not permitted; and
(iii)    no contact is permitted that may result, or is intended to result, in physical harm to an opponent; or
(4)    a mixed martial arts exhibition.
(b)    Each boxer shall wear protective headgear in each amateur boxing match or exhibition.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 4 - Athletics › Subtitle 3 - Boxing, Kick Boxing, Wrestling, and Mixed Martial Arts › Section 4-303 - License Required

(a)    A person may not participate as a wrestler or contestant in a contest in the State unless the person has an appropriate license.
(b)    A person may not act as a manager, referee, judge, second, matchmaker, or promoter in a contest in the State unless the person has an appropriate license.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 4 - Athletics › Subtitle 3 - Boxing, Kick Boxing, Wrestling, and Mixed Martial Arts › Section 4-304 - Qualifications of Boxers, Kick Boxers, and Mixed Martial Arts Contestants

(a)    A licensee shall be examined by a licensed physician who is chosen by the Commission and who specializes in neurology or neurosurgery prior to the licensee’s first appearance as a contestant in a kick boxing, boxing, or mixed martial arts contest following the issuance or renewal of a license.
(b)    The Commission shall pay the cost of the neurological examination required under this section from license fees collected under this subtitle.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 4 - Athletics › Subtitle 3 - Boxing, Kick Boxing, Wrestling, and Mixed Martial Arts › Section 4-304.1 - Blood Tests for Contestants

(a)    Each applicant for a license to participate as a contestant in a contest shall present documentary evidence, satisfactory to the Commission, that:
(1)    within the prior 30–day period, the applicant has been tested for the presence of:
(i)    antibodies to the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV);
(ii)    the antigen of virus hepatitis B; and
(iii)    antibodies to virus hepatitis C; and
(2)    the results of all tests are negative.
(b)    Whenever directed by the Commission, an individual who is licensed to participate as a contestant in a contest shall present documentary evidence, satisfactory to the Commission, that:
(1)    within 30 days prior to participating in a contest, the individual has been tested for the presence of:
(i)    antibodies to the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV);
(ii)    the antigen of virus hepatitis B; and
(iii)    antibodies to virus hepatitis C; and
(2)    the results of all tests are negative.
(c)    A test for the presence of HIV conducted under the provisions of this section shall be conducted in accordance with the provisions of Title 4, Subtitle 3 and § 18–336 of the Health – General Article.
(d)    (1)    If the Commission denies a license, suspends or revokes a license, denies renewal of a license, or does not allow an individual to participate in a contest because of the failure of the individual to comply with this section, the Commission shall keep the information confidential and may not disclose the reason for its action.
(2)    A person who violates paragraph (1) of this subsection is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to a fine not exceeding $1,000 for the first offense and not exceeding $5,000 for each subsequent conviction.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 4 - Athletics › Subtitle 3 - Boxing, Kick Boxing, Wrestling, and Mixed Martial Arts › Section 4-305 - Applications for Licenses

(a)    An applicant for a license shall:
(1)    submit to the Commission an application on the form that the Commission provides; and
(2)    pay to the Commission an application fee of:
(i)    $10 for a license to participate as a wrestler or contestant in a contest or to act as a second in a contest;
(ii)    $15 for a license to act as a referee or judge in a contest;
(iii)    $25 for a license to act as a manager of a contestant;
(iv)    $25 for a license to act as a matchmaker of a contest; or
(v)    $150 for a license to act as a promoter of a contest.
(b)    The application shall contain the information that the Commission requires by regulation.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 4 - Athletics › Subtitle 3 - Boxing, Kick Boxing, Wrestling, and Mixed Martial Arts › Section 4-306 - Surety Bond

(a)    An applicant for a license to act as a promoter of a contest shall execute a surety bond to be given to the State for the benefit of each person who may be interested in the payment of the expenses incurred in connection with the contest.
(b)    The surety bond shall be:
(1)    in the amount of:
(i)    $2,000; or
(ii)    any greater amount that the Commission requires;
(2)    in a form that the Commission approves;
(3)    with a surety that the Commission approves; and
(4)    conditioned on the payment, within the time that the Commission sets, of all expenses incurred in connection with the contest.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 4 - Athletics › Subtitle 3 - Boxing, Kick Boxing, Wrestling, and Mixed Martial Arts › Section 4-308 - Scope of License

(a)    A boxer license authorizes the licensee to participate as a boxer in a contest.
(b)    (1)    A professional kick boxer license authorizes the licensee to participate as a professional kick boxer in a contest.
(2)    An amateur kick boxer license authorizes the licensee to participate as an amateur kick boxer in a contest.
(c)    A wrestler license authorizes the licensee to participate as a wrestler in a contest.
(d)    (1)    A professional mixed martial arts contestant license authorizes the licensee to participate as a professional mixed martial arts contestant in a contest.
(2)    An amateur mixed martial arts contestant license authorizes the licensee to participate as an amateur mixed martial arts contestant in a contest.
(e)    A manager license authorizes the licensee to act as a manager of a contestant.
(f)    A referee license authorizes the licensee to act as a referee in a contest.
(g)    A judge license authorizes the licensee to act as a judge in a contest.
(h)    A second license authorizes the licensee to act as a second in a contest.
(i)    A matchmaker license authorizes the licensee to act as a matchmaker of a contest.
(j)    A promoter license authorizes the licensee to act as a promoter of a contest.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 4 - Athletics › Subtitle 3 - Boxing, Kick Boxing, Wrestling, and Mixed Martial Arts › Section 4-311 - Denials, Reprimands, Suspensions, and Revocations -- Hearings

(a)    Except as otherwise provided in § 10-226 of the State Government Article, before the Commission takes any final action under § 4-310 of this subtitle, it shall give the person against whom the action is contemplated an opportunity for a hearing before the Commission.
(b)    The Commission shall give notice and hold the hearing in accordance with Title 10, Subtitle 2 of the State Government Article.
(c)    The Commission may administer oaths in a proceeding under this section.
(d)    If, after due notice, the person against whom the action is contemplated does not appear, nevertheless the Commission may hear and determine the matter.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 4 - Athletics › Subtitle 3 - Boxing, Kick Boxing, Wrestling, and Mixed Martial Arts › Section 4-312 - Judicial Review

A party to a proceeding before the Commission who is aggrieved by a final decision of the Commission in a contested case, as defined in § 10-202 of the State Government Article, may take an appeal as allowed in §§ 10-222 and 10-223 of the State Government Article.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 4 - Athletics › Subtitle 3 - Boxing, Kick Boxing, Wrestling, and Mixed Martial Arts › Section 4-314 - Neurological Examination

(a)    The Commission shall require an individual to be examined by a licensed physician who is chosen by the Commission and who specializes in neurology or neurosurgery before the individual may participate as a contestant in a contest in the State if:
(1)    the individual has participated as a contestant in more than 12 contests in or out of the State;
(2)    a ringside physician recommends the examination; or
(3)    in 2 successive contests the individual:
(i)    receives a technical knockout as a result of a neurological injury; or
(ii)    is knocked out.
(b)    The Commission shall pay the cost of the neurological examination required under this section from the license fees collected under this subtitle.
(c)    On the basis of the neurological examination and the recommendation of the physician who conducts the examination, the Commission may find that the individual is not fit and may prohibit the individual from participating in a contest in the State.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 4 - Athletics › Subtitle 3 - Boxing, Kick Boxing, Wrestling, and Mixed Martial Arts › Section 4-315 - Boxing, Kick Boxing, or Mixed Martial Arts Contests

(a)    A contestant shall be allowed to enter the ring only if:
(1)    a physician approved by the Commission declares the contestant to be physically fit; and
(2)    the contestant has complied with § 4–304.1 of this subtitle.
(b)    (1)    Each contestant in a contest shall submit to:
(i)    a chemical test of the urine or blood of the contestant to detect the presence of a controlled dangerous substance defined in § 5–101 of the Criminal Law Article or other substance that the Commission prohibits by regulation; and
(ii)    subject to paragraph (2) of this subsection, a test of the blood or urine of the contestant to detect the presence of performance enhancing drugs, including:
1.    human growth hormones; and
2.    anabolic steroids.
(2)    A contestant shall be required to submit to a blood or urine test under paragraph (1)(ii) of this subsection if:
(i)    there is reasonable cause to believe the contestant has used a substance prohibited by regulation;
(ii)    the contestant was randomly selected by lottery; or
(iii)    the contestant has a documented or otherwise verified history of drug use within the 5 years immediately preceding the date of the contest.
(c)    The Commission shall set the length in rounds of each contest.
(d)    (1)    The Commission shall adopt regulations to ensure the safety of individuals who participate in amateur or professional mixed martial arts contests.
(2)    In developing the regulations, the Commission shall consider:
(i)    appropriate limits on acceptable maneuvers;
(ii)    time limits for contest rounds; and
(iii)    rules for termination of a contest.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 4 - Athletics › Subtitle 3 - Boxing, Kick Boxing, Wrestling, and Mixed Martial Arts › Section 4-316 - Wrestler or Contestants in Fake Contests -- Penalties

A wrestler or contestant who participates in a fake contest:
(1)    for the first offense, shall be prohibited for a period of 6 months beginning immediately after the offense from participating in a contest that is held by a person licensed to act as a promoter of a contest; and
(2)    for the second offense, shall be disqualified from attendance at or participation in a contest that is held by a person licensed to act as a promoter of a contest.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 4 - Athletics › Subtitle 3 - Boxing, Kick Boxing, Wrestling, and Mixed Martial Arts › Section 4-317 - Publication of Seat Prices

(a)    To protect the general public, the promoter of a contest shall have the price of seats at the contest published in at least 2 newspapers of general circulation in the county in which the contest is held.
(b)    The advertisement shall be in a space that is at least 2 inches by 3 inches.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Business Regulation › Title 4 - Athletics › Subtitle 3 - Boxing, Kick Boxing, Wrestling, and Mixed Martial Arts › Section 4-320 - Allowing Unlicensed Person to Act or Participate in Contest Prohibited

A promoter may not allow a person who does not have an appropriate license to participate as a wrestler or contestant in a contest or to act as a manager, referee, judge, second, or matchmaker in a contest.