PANEL WILL HEAR COMMENTS ON STEARNS' U.S. BOXING COMMISSION ACT

Washington, Mar 2, 2005 - "Boxers are skilled and well-trained athletes, with some rising to the top while others face uncertain futures, unsafe conditions, and unethical business associates," said Rep. Cliff Stearns (R-FL), Chairman of the Commerce, Trade & Consumer Protection Subcommittee. "Last year, the panel looked at the need for boxing reform, which resulted in my introduction of the U.S. Boxing Commission Act. Among those testifying in support of reform and a U.S. Boxing Commission was Muhammad Ali, 'The Greatest.' I have again offered the U.S. Boxing Commission Act."

The hearing will examine Stearns legislation creating a Federal entity responsible for coordinating, implementing, and enforcing uniform standards in boxing. It would not replace state regulation, but it would work with the states to develop appropriate standards and ensure their rules and standards are enforced.

The hearing will be held on Thursday. March 3, 2005, at 11:30 a.m. in Room 2322 RHOB. The following are scheduled to testify:


Dr. Michael Schwartz, Chairman. American Association of Professional Ringside Physicians;


Mr. Ron Scott Stevens, Chairman, New York State Athletic Commission; and


Ms. Linda Torres, Counsel, McElroy, Deutsch, Mulvaney & Carpenter, LLP., on behalf of the International Boxing Federation.