Bill > SR166

This resolution designates three separate weeks in 2025 and 2026 as "PIAA Officials Appreciation Weeks" in Pennsylvania, specifically October 5-11, 2025, January 11-17, 2026, and April 5-11, 2026. The resolution recognizes the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association (PIAA), which has over 13,000 registered sports officials, and highlights the critical role these officials play in interscholastic athletics. The resolution acknowledges that PIAA officials contribute to student-athletes' lives by encouraging exercise, promoting sportsmanship, and establishing fair competition, while also facing challenging work conditions that involve maintaining order and making accurate calls under significant pressure. The resolution is further supported by recent legislative efforts to protect sports officials, such as Senate Bill 842, which created a separate legal offense for harassing sporting event officials. By designating these appreciation weeks, the resolution aims to encourage schools, coaches, student-athletes, and fans to recognize and thank PIAA officials for their time, dedication, and important contributions to sports and the community.

Government Affairs

https://www.palegis.us/legislation/bills/2025/sr166