HB 3397
Safe Play Act
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Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed House of Delegates
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill increases the fines and potential jail time for individuals convicted of assault or battery against athletic officials during sports events in West Virginia. Currently, penalties for such offenses were capped at lower amounts. The Safe Play Act aims to deter violence against officials and ensure a safer environment for athletes and those overseeing games. It clarifies that ‘athletic official’ includes individuals enforcing rules and supervising participants.
Key provisions
- Increases the fine for assault on an athletic official to a minimum of $500 and a maximum of $1,000.
- Increases the fine for battery on an athletic official to a minimum of $1,000 and a maximum of $3,000.
- Increases the potential jail time for assault on an athletic official to a maximum of six months.
- Increases the potential jail time for battery on an athletic official to a maximum of twelve months.
- Defines ‘athletic official’ to include umpires, referees, and coaches.
- Amends existing West Virginia Code §61-2-15a.
Who is affected
- Individuals convicted of assault or battery
- Athletic officials
- Sports event participants
- Sports event organizers
Notable changes
- Raises the monetary penalties for offenses against athletic officials.
- Increases the maximum jail sentence for offenses against athletic officials.
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