Minnesota HF121 enhances penalties for assaulting a sports official while they are performing their duties.

Minnesota HF121 amends state law to increase penalties for assaulting a sports official. The bill specifies that anyone who assaults a sports official while they are performing their duties and inflicts demonstrable bodily harm will be guilty of a gross misdemeanor. A sports official includes those serving as umpires, referees, judges, linespersons, timers, or scorekeepers for youth athletic activities. The enhanced penalties apply to assaults occurring on the premises, in the parking lot, or while traveling to or from the event. This change takes effect August 1, 2025.

Minnesota HF121 enhances penalties for assaulting a sports official while they are performing their duties.

Minnesota HF121 amends state law to increase penalties for assaulting a sports official. The bill specifies that anyone who assaults a sports official while they are performing their duties and inflicts demonstrable bodily harm will be guilty of a gross misdemeanor. A sports official includes those serving as umpires, referees, judges, linespersons, timers, or scorekeepers for youth athletic activities. The enhanced penalties apply to assaults occurring on the premises, in the parking lot, or while traveling to or from the event. This change takes effect August 1, 2025.