Missouri House Bill HB1809

Missouri 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/5/22
• Refer: 5/13/22

Caption

Expands the definition of special victim to include sports officials at a sporting event

Impact

This bill is poised to alter existing state legal frameworks by providing greater protection to sports officials under criminal law. It acknowledges the rising incidents of abuse and violence faced by these individuals, particularly at amateur sporting events. By expanding the definition of special victims, the bill aligns with similar protections afforded to other vulnerable groups, thereby setting a precedent for future considerations of safety in sports environments.

Summary

House Bill 1809 aims to expand the legal definition of 'special victims' to include sports officials who are attacked or threatened during sporting events. The bill recognizes the unique challenges and risks faced by these officials when performing their duties, and seeks to enhance their protection under state law. By officially categorizing sports officials as special victims, the legislation is intended to help ensure that violent acts against them are treated with the seriousness they deserve in the judicial system.

Contention

While HB1809 generally enjoys support for addressing the safety of sports officials, there may be some debate regarding its implications on how incidents are prosecuted and the resources available for enforcement. Some critics may argue that the focus on sports officials could divert attention or resources away from addressing broader issues of violence in sports, while others will highlight the importance of ensuring that such individuals receive dedicated legal protections tailored to their unique situations. The reactions from both legislative supporters and opponents will likely shape the funding and implementation aspects of the bill.