Section 522 - Combat Sports Authority of Maine1.Establishment. The Combat Sports Authority of Maine, as established in Title 5, section 12004-G, subsection 4-D, is a body corporate and politic and a public instrumentality of the State. The exercise by the authority of the powers conferred by this chapter constitutes the performance of essential governmental functions. [2011, c. 305, §4(AMD).]
2.Purpose. The authority is established to regulate and promote mixed martial arts, Muay Thai, kickboxing and boxing competitions, exhibitions and events in the State as set forth in this chapter. A mixed martial arts, Muay Thai, kickboxing or boxing competition, exhibition or event may not be held in the State prior to the adoption of rules pursuant to this chapter. [2023, c. 152, §5(AMD).]
3.Board of directors. The authority is governed and its powers exercised by a board of directors. The board consists of 7 voting members appointed by the Governor. Immediately after their appointments, the members of the authority shall assume their duties. All board members serve as agents of the authority for purposes of service of process. [2011, c. 305, §4(AMD).]
4.Officers. The board shall elect a chair, a secretary and a treasurer from among its members. [2009, c. 352, §2(NEW).]
5.Terms; vacancy. Members of the authority are appointed to 3-year terms. A vacancy in the authority does not impair the right of a quorum of the members to exercise all the rights and perform all the duties of the authority. In the event of vacancy occurring in the membership, the Governor shall appoint a replacement member for the remainder of that term. Each member of the authority serves until that member's successor is appointed and qualified. A member of the authority is eligible for reappointment. [2009, c. 352, §2(NEW).]
5-A.Compensation. Members of the authority may be compensated for per diem and expenses as provided in the board's bylaws from money received under subsection 7. [2011, c. 305, §4(NEW).]
6.Bylaws and business plan. The board shall adopt bylaws for the governance of the authority and the conduct of its affairs and may amend and revoke the bylaws as necessary. The board shall adopt a business plan setting forth goals, desired outcomes and performance expectations for the authority and shall update the business plan on an annual basis. [2009, c. 352, §2(NEW).]
7.Revenue and expenditures. The board may receive revenue from mixed martial arts, Muay Thai, kickboxing and boxing competitions, exhibitions and events, as well as from the sale of goods and merchandise, in accordance with rules adopted pursuant to sections 523 and 524. The authority may apply for, solicit and receive grants, donations and gifts and may receive appropriations from the State and funds from other governmental authorities. All funds received must be spent solely to assist with operational expenses in furtherance of the purpose of the authority. Funds may be used to compensate members of the authority for per diem and expenses in accordance with the board's bylaws. The board may enter into contracts to obtain the assistance of staff sufficient to support operations of the board. [2023, c. 152, §6(AMD).]
8.Annual report. By March 15th of each year, beginning in 2010, the authority shall provide an annual report on its activities to the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over business, research and economic development matters. The report must include an evaluation of the authority's success in meeting the goals, outcomes and performance expectations contained in its business plan, as well as a summary of the revenue and expenditures of the authority pursuant to subsection 7 and section 525. [2009, c. 352, §2(NEW).]
Amended by 2023SP1, c. 152,§ 6, eff. 10/25/2023.Amended by 2023SP1, c. 152,§ 5, eff. 10/25/2023.Amended by 2011, c. 305,§ 4, eff. 9/28/2011.2009, c. 352, § 2 (NEW) . 2009, c. 582, § 1 (AMD) .