By MICHEAL BOYLAN
mboylan@thecitizennews.com

Governor Roy Barnes recently signed HB 265, a measure aimed at protecting sports officials from angry fans and players. The measure, sponsored by Rep. Stan Watson of Decatur, covers collegiate, high school and any other amateur sports.

“This will send a strong message to those who don't respect officials and help keep our parks safefrom violence,” said Rep. Watson. “I've seen too many people over the years cross the line when they don't agree with a call.”

According to the bill, any person committing simple assault, simple battery, or battery against a sports official could be punished for a misdemeanor of a high and aggravated nature. The offense must occur while the official is officiating an amateur contest, or while they are exiting the property where he or she will officiate, or has completed officiating an amateur contest.

Also according to the bill, a person commits the offense of simple battery when he or she either intentionally makes physical contact of an insulting or provoking nature with the person of another; or intentionally causes physical harm to another.

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