HB 4999
Relating to crimes against athletic officials
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- Passed House of Delegates
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill aims to increase penalties for crimes against athletic officials and participants during sports events in West Virginia. It clarifies that ‘athletic official or participant’ includes players and other individuals involved in the event, such as coaches and referees. The bill establishes minimum jail sentences and fines for assault and battery, and allows for bans from state school sports events for convicted offenders. Certain actions during the game, like hard fouls within the rules of the sport, are exempt from prosecution.
Key provisions
- Increases minimum jail penalties for assault and battery against athletic officials or participants.
- Expands the definition of ‘athletic official or participant’ to include players, coaches, and other event supervisors.
- Authorizes a county board of education or governing board for a state institution of higher education to ban convicted individuals from state school sports events.
- Requires written notice to be provided to a banned individual.
- A violation of a ban is considered trespass.
- Creates exemptions for participants regarding hard fouls within the rules of the sport.
- Establishes criminal penalties for offenses against athletic officials or participants.
Who is affected
- Athletic officials (e.g., referees, umpires, coaches)
- Sports team participants (players)
- School districts (through county boards of education)
- State institutions of higher education
- Individuals attending sports events
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