T H E A S S E M B LY

S TAT E O F N E W Y O R K
A LBA N Y

Dean Murray

Assemblyman 3rd District

RANKING MINORITY MEMBER

Food, Farms and Nutrition
COMMITTEES
Aging
Education
Small Business
Tourism, Parks Arts and Sports Development
Transportation

The Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo

Governor, State of New York
NYS State Capitol
Executive Chamber
Albany, NY 12224
Dear Governor Cuomo:
Boosting New Yorks economic potential is my top priority. That is why Im writing to request
that you include the legalization of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) in your Executive Budget
presentation on Wednesday. This incredibly popular sport is supported by majorities in both
houses of the legislature and would be of great benefit to our economy.
In the wake of the decision to ban hydrofracking, we should take advantage of alternative means
to increase revenue and spur economic growth. Legalizing MMA does just that and doesnt come
with any environmental or collateral cost to our communities. With the potential to raise between
$23 million to $40 million in economic impact in the first year alone, legalizing this sport is a
cant-miss opportunity.
When considering that two successful titleholders in the Ultimate Fighting Championship, the
worlds premier MMA company, were born and raised right here in our state, the drawing
potential for this sport could be even higher. That means more visitors to our great cities and
more tourism money for our world-class hotel and restaurant industries.
Moreover, keeping live MMA events out of New York simply keeps New Yorkers from reaping
the economic benefits of this professional sport. MMA can be seen on TV on Fox, Spike TV and
pay-per-view, yet seeing a safe, legally sanctioned live event in New York State is illegal.
In these times, the positive fiscal impact to legalizing MMA can no longer be ignored. I
respectfully request that you include this initiative in your budget presentation next week.
Sincerely

DEAN MURRAY
Member of Assembly
Third District