Two bills aimed to protect WA youth referees

In response to increasing violence against youth referees, the Washington State Legislature is advancing two bills aimed at enhancing safety and accountability during school sporting events. The initiative follows a disturbing incident at a Seattle youth hockey game where a parent attacked two teenage referees, prompting advocates like Bob West to call for legislative action. West, who experienced a near-fatal assault during his officiating career, highlights the broader issue of referee assaults across the U. S. and the subsequent loss of officials in youth sports.

The proposed legislation, HB 1085 and SB 5272, seeks to impose stricter penalties, including criminal charges and venue bans for individuals who harass or attack referees. This legislative move comes at a time when a national survey revealed that half of sports officials feel unsafe, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. The bills have already received favorable recommendations in the legislative process, signaling progress toward their potential enactment. West argues that sports officials deserve the same protections as law enforcement and medical personnel, reinforcing the need for accountability. As these bills gain momentum, they represent a crucial step toward fostering a safer environment for youth sports officials.