Local amateur martial arts schools and boxing clubs in Illinois will be protected from professional level regulations that could otherwise force them out of business, under legislation signed into law July 14 by the Governor.

House Bill 1490 was cosponsored in the Senate by State Sen. Kyle McCarter.

“My goal in getting involved with this legislation was to make sure our local martial arts schools and clubs teaching Tae Kwon-do, Karate, Judo and boxing to our youth would not be unfairly lumped in with professionals and higher-level amateurs who fight in rings or cages,” said McCarter (R-Lebanon).

Sen. McCarter said while its important that fighters are protected he did not want to see over-regulation put the local clubs and organizations at risk.

“Our local community clubs teach discipline and respect through traditional martial arts and they do a great job in building character and helping our youth succeed in life,” said McCarter. “That’s what I wanted to protect.”

Under House Bill 1490, the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) will continue to regulate amateur and professional bouts inside a ring or cage.