WASHINGTON STATE

Washington State House Democrats

HOUSE DEMOCRATS

House unleashes lucha libre reform

People go to professional wrestling, including the style known as lucha libre, to be entertained.

House Bill 2573 by Rep. Zack Hudgins (D-Tukwila) would help the emerging business in Washington state by looking into relaxing the tight rules and fees being required, which treat the wrestling event as if it’s a combative sport such as boxing.

“This is good family fun that’s getting put in a headlock by these extra rules and fees,” Hudgins said. “I hope this law opens the doors for lucha libre in Washington state.”

Right now, promoters have to charge an extra fee on every ticket and pay for precautions like ambulances, blood tests and paramedics.

“Those precautions are smart for combat sports like boxing and MMA,” Hudgins said. “It’s expensive overkill in theatrical wrestling like lucha libre, where matches follow a script and they’re trying to put on a show.”

Theatrical wrestlers are motivated to be safe because nobody wants to work with a wrestler who injures fellow performers, Hudgins said.

Today’s tough Department of Licensing regulations were pinned to the mat on a strong 82-14 vote in the House, where two lawmakers put on lucha libre masks shortly before the vote.

The bill now goes to the Senate.