Lift The Ban Watch: Tennessee Update Edition

So that controversial earmark that would direct proceeds collected not required to run the athletic commission to the state’s only collegiate Division I program? It was approved on the committee level:

A bill to legalize and regulate “mixed martial arts” competitions in Tennessee is headed for a full Senate vote.

The measure passed the Senate Finance Committee 10-1 on Monday. The companion bill was approved 95-2 in the House last week.

The measure would create a new commission to regulate amateur and professional contests beyond the boxing and kickboxing currently permitted in Tennessee.

The committee approved an amendment by Sen. Bo Watson that would direct some of the proceeds to Division I wrestling programs in Tennessee.