CSAC backs AB 2130 to allow sponsorship funding for training and pension support

The California State Athletic Commission voted to approve and sponsor AB 2130, legislation carried by Assemblymember Haney that would authorize sponsorship contracts, create an assistant chief inspector position focused on training, and authorize appropriations to support referee apparel sponsorships and a discretionary MMA payments fund.

Executive Officer Andy Foster described AB 2130 as a multiyear project to fund pensions and training. He told commissioners the bill would allow the commission to enter private-public partnerships to secure sponsorship revenue (for example, referee apparel or tourism promotions), to work cooperatively with tribal partners on referee uniforms where they choose, and to create an assistant chief inspector responsible for training. Foster said the bill could enable additional one-time payments to fighters who qualified under the pension statute but were retired when funds were previously inactive.

Foster framed the measure as building on existing commission-led pension programs, noting that the commission already administers pension distributions for boxers and MMA athletes and that AB 2130 would broaden funding options. Commissioners praised the effort as providing a mechanism to support athletes and training while keeping ticket costs stable.

The commission moved and voted to support the bill during the meeting; the motion carried by voice vote. Commissioners also discussed additional fundraising ideas, including exploring expanded raffles at sporting events to dedicate proceeds to the pension funds.

Next steps: staff will continue to work with the bill carrier and return with implementation details as the bill proceeds through the legislative process.