Bill > H1682

This bill amends Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 265 by adding a new section specifically addressing assaults on sports officials. The bill defines a "sports official" as any paid or volunteer referee, umpire, line judge, or similar individual officiating an athletic contest. Under the proposed law, if a person commits an assault or assault and battery against a sports official immediately before, during, or after an interscholastic, intercollegiate, amateur, or professional athletic event, and the person knows or should know the victim was performing their official duties, they can be punished by a fine ranging from $500 to $5,000, imprisonment in a house of correction for 90 days to 2.5 years, or both. Additionally, the bill makes it illegal to require a sports official to remain on the playing surface after the conclusion of a contest, with violators subject to a fine of up to $200 or imprisonment for up to 30 days. The legislation aims to protect sports officials from violent behavior and ensure their safety while performing their professional responsibilities.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1682