Bill > A02203

This bill amends the not-for-profit corporation law and the general obligations law to provide legal protection for volunteers in youth recreational programs. Specifically, the bill creates liability exemptions for unpaid volunteers such as coaches, managers, referees, board members, and assistants in organizations like the Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, YMCA, and similar youth-focused groups. Under this legislation, these volunteers would be shielded from civil lawsuits for damages arising from their actions or inactions while providing services during competitive games, practices, or other organized youth activities, as long as those actions were not willful, wanton, or grossly negligent. The bill defines "compensation" as not including reimbursement for reasonable expenses, meaning volunteers who are only covering their out-of-pocket costs remain eligible for the liability protection. The law applies to volunteers working with participants who are 18 years old or younger and is designed to encourage community involvement in youth sports and recreational programs by reducing the legal risk for volunteers.

Justice

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A2203