ALBANY — The state Senate on Tuesday night passed a bill to allow mixed martial arts in New York, raising hopes the sport could be legalized soon.

“It’s the right thing to do,” said Sen. Timothy Kennedy (D-Buffalo). “It’s about time.”

The bill has a match in the Assembly, but it’s unclear if the legislation has the support to pass there, according to Assemblyman Joseph Morrelle (D-Rochester).

The measure passed the Senate, 49-13, with the nays citing insurance and safety
concerns.