PANEL ADOPTS A BIPARTISAN AMENDMENT TO EACH

Washington, May 25, 2005 - "I appreciate the support of the subcommittee members for these bills and I look forward to quick action on them by the full committee," said Rep. Cliff Stearns (R-FL), Chairman of the Commerce, Trade & Consumer Protection Subcommittee.  The panel today approved H.R. 1065, the United States Boxing Commission Act; and H.R. 1862, the Drug Free Sports Act; both authored by Stearns.  During consideration of these bills, the panel approved an amendment in the nature of a substitute developed with the agreement of the Democrats on each bill.

H.R. 1862 establishes a single steroid testing standard for professional sports modeled on those of the Olympics, and sets the penalty for steroid use at a two-year suspension for the first positive test and a life-time ban for the second.  "The amendment to H.R. 1862 enhances the base bill by increasing the timing and frequency of testing, improving the appeals process, and refining the language to be more consistent with the Olympic anti-doping standard," explained Stearns.  "Specifically, it mandates that athletes be randomly tested at least twice a year without notice, and that the tests occur during both the season of play and in the off-season."  The original bill required at least one test a year.  During discussion of the bill, Stearns indicated his willingness to consider a lesser penalty for a first positive test and a life-time ban after the third positive test.

H.R. 1065 creates a U.S. Boxing Commission to establish uniform standards in the sport, ensure state and federal laws are enforced, provide for licensing of boxers and boxing personnel, and promote safety in the sport.  "The amendment to H.R. 1065 also improved on the original legislation by requiring that those who set up matches be licensed and by clarifying that the U.S. Boxing Commission Executive Director has authority to issue temporary restraining orders in advancing the goals of the legislation," said Stearns.