Bill > HB379

This bill expands the definition of "special victim" in Missouri law to include sports officials who are assaulted while performing their duties at a sporting event. Specifically, the bill adds a new subsection to the existing definition that covers various professional and vulnerable groups who are protected under the law. The new provision clarifies that a sports official can be considered a special victim if they are assaulted during or directly as a result of their official duties. The bill provides a broad definition of "sports official," including judges, linesmen, referees, and umpires, and specifies that the official must be trained and certified or registered by an organization dedicated to sports officiating. The definition applies to sporting events at all levels of competition, which suggests the protection extends from youth sports to professional leagues. By adding sports officials to the list of special victims, the bill aims to provide enhanced legal protections and potentially more severe penalties for those who assault individuals performing these important roles in sporting events.

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB379&year=2025&code=R