Bill aims to protect referees

Kirsten Searer

Tuesday, April 12, 2005 | 9:44 a.m.

CARSON CITY -- Sports officials would have extra protection on the playing field under a bill approved Monday by an Assembly committee.

Assembly Bill 474 would make it a category B felony to commit battery on a sports official. A person could receive at least 2 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

The increase in penalties would give sporting officials the same protection as the state gives to school employees, taxicab drivers, correctional officers, and health care providers.

Ronald Thompson, who officiates basketball and is a member of the Southern Nevada Officials Association, said at least 19 states have enhanced penalties for people who assault sports officials.

"Every time one of us blows a whistle or makes a call, usually half of the crowd thinks we're wrong," he said.

Assemblyman William Horne, D-Las Vegas, said the problem arises in all levels of sports, from Little League to the NBA.

"We're getting to a point now where we have to legislate the conduct of people who go to a game," he said. "It's supposed to be enjoyment and they take it so seriously that they come to blows."

The bill also stipulated that time keepers and inspectors involved in sporting events cannot be held civilly liable for their actions during sporting events unless they are found to have "gross negligence."

The bill originally had exempted physicians from civil liabilities that might be filed due to a sporting event. Proponents argued that doctors involved in boxing matches make a call on whether boxers can continue in a match, meaning they aren't involved in their typical medical practices.

But representatives of the Nevada Trial Lawyers Association objected, saying current state law already limits noneconomic damages levied on physicians at $350,000.

The bill now goes to the Assembly floor.