Bill > HB1803

This bill aims to promote safety in youth sports by establishing comprehensive guidelines and requirements for coaches, youth sports organizations, and schools. Beginning July 1, 2026, the bill mandates that youth sports organizations require coaches to annually complete training on mandatory reporting of child abuse and neglect. Coaches will need to undergo abuse prevention training that covers topics such as prohibited conduct, appropriate interactions with players, recognizing and preventing abusive behaviors, and responding to sexual abuse disclosures. The Washington Interscholastic Activities Association (WIAA) must develop a prohibited conduct policy that outlines specific behaviors that are not allowed and establishes a mandatory reporting mechanism for adults who witness inappropriate actions. Additionally, youth sports organizations will be required to conduct background checks on coaches and are prohibited from hiring individuals with convictions related to crimes against children or other persons. The bill also requires organizations to display informational posters about child abuse reporting and mandates that schools and youth sports organizations adopt policies that prioritize the safety and well-being of young athletes. These provisions are designed to create a safer environment for youth participating in sports by establishing clear guidelines, training requirements, and accountability measures for coaches and organizations.

Education

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1803&Year=2025&Initiative=false