CHARLESTON, WV (LOOTPRESS) – A bill aimed at protecting sports referees, umpires, and other athletic officials from assault and battery is making its way through the West Virginia Senate.
Senate Bill 531, introduced by Sen. Mike Woelfel (D-Cabell), proposes stricter penalties for anyone who assaults or physically attacks an athletic official while they are performing their duties.
The bill is currently up for passage in the Senate.
Under the proposed law, if someone assaults an athletic official—such as a referee, umpire, or coach—during or while traveling to and from a sporting event, they would face a misdemeanor charge.
If convicted, they could be fined between $500 and $1,000, sentenced to up to six months in jail, or both.
The penalties would be even harsher for those who commit battery, which involves physical contact.
A person found guilty of battering an athletic official would face a misdemeanor charge, a fine ranging from $1,000 to $2,000, up to 12 months in jail, or both.
Supporters of the bill argue that sports officials often face harassment and violence from angry fans, players, and even coaches. They believe stronger penalties will help deter such behavior and encourage a safer environment at sporting events.
