This bill amends the Code of West Virginia to enhance protections for athletic officials and participants by clarifying that both groups are considered victims of assault and battery. It establishes minimum jail penalties for offenders, with fines for assault set between $250 and $500 and for battery between $500 and $1,000, along with corresponding jail time. The bill also introduces a definition of "athletic official or participant," which includes players, referees, coaches, and other officials involved in sports events.

Additionally, the bill allows for the imposition of a ban on individuals convicted of assaulting or battering athletic officials or participants from attending state school sports events for a minimum of 365 days. Written notification of this ban must be provided to the convicted individual, and failure to comply with the ban will result in trespassing charges. This legislation aims to strengthen the legal framework surrounding crimes against athletic officials and participants, ensuring a safer environment at sports events.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 61-2-15a
Engrossed Version: 61-2-15a