Ohio House Passes Bill to Protect Sports Officials

COLUMBUS –The Ohio House of Representatives today passed House Bill 139, legislation that will increase penalties for assault if the victim is a sports official, announced bill sponsor State Rep. Bill Roemer (R-Richfield).

This legislation adds a mandatory $1,500 fine and 40 hours of community service for committing misdemeanor assault against sports officials who are targeted in retaliation for their work while engaged as an athletic official. In addition, subsequent offenses would be elevated to a fifth-degree felony.

“On the fields of athletic competition, good sportsmanship and fair play must be preserved,” said Roemer. “Unfortunately, some alarming trends in recent years have led to sports officials falling victim to physical harm, causing many to re-think taking on the job. Sports officials should be protected so they can do their jobs and uphold the integrity of sports.”

House Bill 139 now heads to the Ohio Senate for further consideration.