The bill seeks to improve the safety of youth sports by establishing new training and reporting requirements for coaches and youth sports organizations. It introduces definitions for "coach" and "youth sports organization," clarifying their roles and responsibilities. Starting July 1, 2026, all youth sports organizations must ensure that their coaches complete annual training on mandatory reporting of child abuse and neglect, as well as an abuse prevention training program that addresses prohibited conduct and appropriate interactions. Additionally, the bill requires the Department of Children, Youth, and Families to develop a prohibited conduct policy that youth sports organizations must adopt.

Moreover, the bill expands the list of mandatory reporters of child abuse and neglect to include coaches of youth sports organizations, department of corrections personnel, guardians ad litem, and employees of higher education institutions. It clarifies the definition of "severe abuse" and mandates that reports of suspected abuse be made within forty-eight hours of reasonable cause. Organizations subject to these reporting requirements must display a bilingual poster outlining reporting obligations. The bill also requires background checks for coaches and establishes a timeline for the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association to develop a prohibited conduct policy by January 1, 2026, which school districts must adopt. These measures aim to enhance the protection of children in sports settings and ensure a safe environment for youth athletes.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 26.44.020, 26.44.030, 43.43.830, 43.43.834