Ohio lawmakers propose law to protect referees

Ohio lawmakers are proposing a law in one community that would protect referees and officials working sporting events in the area.

Richard Scott, an Ohio Councilman, introduced legislation recently that would penalize any physical confrontation or physical harm to an official.

A recent story from WKBN.com detailed the proposed Ohio law. Below is an excerpt from the WKBN.com story.

“My sons are umpires. So, when you are scheduling two umpires, it’s hard to fill the positions.  I’m seeing things on TV, the reports of parents going after umpires, parents going after coaches, parents going after parents,” said Scott.

Under the proposed spectator conduct law, Scott said police would charge violators with disorderly conduct.

However, it is up to the prosecutor to determine the degree of misdemeanor.

“If the games are stopped for any reason, it’s automatic,” said Scott.

But not all council people agree with the proposal.

“I’m opposed to this legislation because it’s not necessary,” said councilman-at-large Brian Poindexter.

Poindexter said he believes the ordinance is too broad and creates the risk of arbitrary enforcement.

“What I don’t want is legislation that weaponizes an ordinance against people,” said Poindexter.

Now there is similar legislation at the state level, House Bill 139, that has yet to clear the house and move on to the Senate. So, if the ordinance is passed in Brook Park, the city would set the benchmark for Ohio sports officials’ protection.