New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A08821

Introduced
6/9/25  

Caption

Exempts minors twelve or thirteen years of age from prohibitions on employment of minors when employed as a referee or umpire for youth sports games played by children under twelve years of age.

Impact

If enacted, A08821 will significantly alter existing state labor laws concerning the employment of minors. Previously, regulations surrounding the employment of minors have been quite restrictive, aimed primarily at protecting their welfare and ensuring their education is not hindered. By allowing younger youths to work as referees and umpires, the bill would not only enhance the availability of officials for youth sports events but also provide a new avenue for youth engagement in community activities. This change may also encourage more minors to participate actively in local sports scenes, enriching both their personal development and the community's sporting culture.

Summary

Bill A08821 seeks to amend the Labor Law in New York State to allow minors aged twelve or thirteen to be employed as referees or umpires for youth sports games involving children under the age of twelve. The bill emphasizes that such employment can occur only under the supervision of a qualified local youth sports official, ensuring that minors participate in a safe and structured environment. This legislation aims to address the need for officials in youth sports, providing opportunities for younger individuals to take on responsibilities while also gaining work experience.

Contention

While the bill appears to offer benefits, it may face opposition from advocacy groups concerned about the implications of allowing minors to enter the workforce at such a young age. Critics might argue that this could set a precedent for lowering age restrictions in other labor-related contexts or that it could interfere with the children's educational pursuits. Proponents of the bill argue that the structure surrounding youth sports can serve as a beneficial and educational work experience for minors, thereby justifying the proposed amendment to the labor laws.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NY S01747

Permits certain minors to be employed as a referee, umpire or official at a youth sporting event; limits a minor 12 or 13 years of age to one youth sporting event per week.

NY A06909

Permits certain minors to be employed as a referee, umpire or official at a youth sporting event; limits a minor 12 or 13 years of age to one youth sporting event per week.

NY A02690

Prohibits children under the age of twelve from riding on a motorcycle.

NY S04666

Prohibits children twelve years old and younger from playing tackle football.

NY A05530

Prohibits children twelve years old and younger from playing tackle football.

NY A00754

Prohibits entry to gun shows to anyone under twelve years of age.

NY A00862

Clarifies the eligibility of an employment agency for status as a small business for division of minority and women's business development programs by changing the basis from number of employees to annual receipts.

NY S03253

Clarifies the eligibility of an employment agency for status as a small business for division of minority and women's business development programs by changing the basis from number of employees to annual receipts.

NY S00331

Prohibits any employer, labor organization, employment agency or licensing agency, or employees or agents thereof, to seek high school, college or graduate program graduation dates from a prospective employee for an interview or as a condition for employment.

NY A00311

Prohibits any employer, labor organization, employment agency or licensing agency, or employees or agents thereof, to seek high school, college or graduate program graduation dates from a prospective employee for an interview or as a condition for employment.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.