NJ A4176

Upgrades simple assault against sports officials at school- or community-sponsored youth sports events from a disorderly persons offense to aggravated assault

Defines "sports official" broadly to include referees, umpires, timers, scorers, coaches, athletic trainers, managers, assistants, and similar roles, whether paid or volunteer

Creates fourth-degree crime (up to 18 months imprisonment, $10,000 fine) when no bodily injury occurs, and third-degree crime (3-5 years imprisonment, $15,000 fine) when bodily injury results

Current law treats such assaults as disorderly persons offenses punishable by up to 6 months imprisonment and $1,000 fine

Takes effect on the first day of the fourth month following enactment