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Bill

Bill

A 8821

Permits the employment of youth referees and umpires

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Carrie Woerner

A 8821 - Permits the Employment of Youth Referees and Umpires OverviewBill Number: A 8821 Title: Permits the employment of youth referees and umpires Status: REFERRED TO LABOR I

REFERRED TO LABOR
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Bill Summary · A 8821

A 8821 - Permits the Employment of Youth Referees and Umpires

Overview

Bill Number: A 8821
Title: Permits the employment of youth referees and umpires
Status: REFERRED TO LABOR
Introduced: June 09, 2025

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of this bill is to allow for the employment of youth referees and umpires in organized sports leagues and competitions. The legislation aims to provide more opportunities for young people to gain valuable work experience, develop leadership skills, and participate actively in their communities through sports officiating roles.

Key Provisions

  • Permits the employment of individuals aged 14-17 as referees, umpires, and other sports officials
  • Establishes guidelines for the supervision and training of youth officials, including requirements for adult mentors
  • Mandates that youth officials be paid at least the applicable minimum wage for their work
  • Requires sports organizations to carry appropriate liability insurance coverage for youth officials
  • Directs the state labor department to develop regulations and best practices for the youth officiating program

Affected Parties and Impacts

This bill would primarily impact:

  • Youth aged 14-17 who are interested in officiating sports competitions
  • Organized sports leagues, clubs, and associations that utilize referees and umpires
  • Parents and guardians of youth officials, who would benefit from additional income opportunities
  • Local communities, which could see increased youth engagement and skill development through the sports officiating program

The legislation is expected to create new part-time job opportunities for thousands of teenagers, while also helping to address shortages of qualified officials in many youth and amateur sports.

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

The bill has been referred to the state legislature's Labor Committee for initial review and consideration. If approved by the committee, it would then proceed to a full floor vote in the state assembly.

Given the bipartisan support for expanding youth employment opportunities, the bill is expected to advance through the legislative process in the coming months. If passed, the new youth officiating program would likely be implemented within 6-12 months to allow for the development of regulations and training protocols.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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