IA HF52

Sports officials who officiate athletic contests at any level of competition in Iowa are granted civil liability protection for injuries or damages arising from actions or inactions related to their officiating duties within athletic facilities

Civil liability protection does not apply to sports officials whose actions or inactions are intentional, malicious, or grossly negligent

Assault against a sports official with intent to inflict serious injury is classified as a class "D" felony (up to 5 years confinement, $1,025-$10,245 fine); assault with a dangerous weapon is also a class "D" felony

Assault against a sports official causing bodily injury or mental illness is an aggravated misdemeanor (up to 2 years, $855-$8,540 fine); other assaults against sports officials are serious misdemeanors (up to 1 year, $430-$2,560 fine)

"Sports official" is defined as a referee, umpire, linesman, or similar individual who is a member of or registered with a local, state, regional, or national organization providing training to officials; the bill takes effect upon enactment