Bill > SB531

This bill amends West Virginia law to provide stronger legal protections for athletic officials and participants during sporting events by establishing clear definitions and penalties for assault and battery. The bill defines "athletic official" as anyone who enforces rules or supervises at a sports event, such as referees, umpires, coaches, and staff, and defines "participant" as players or team members during a game. Under the new provisions, if someone commits assault against an athletic official or participant, they will be charged with a misdemeanor and face a fine between $250 and $500, plus jail time of 5-6 months. Battery against an athletic official or participant carries more severe penalties, including a fine of $500-$1,000 and 10-12 months in jail. Additionally, county boards of education and higher education governing boards can ban convicted individuals from state school sports events for a minimum of 365 days, and anyone who refuses to leave such an event after receiving written notification can be prosecuted for trespass. The bill aims to protect those involved in sports from physical violence and provide clear consequences for such actions.